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LIBRARY of OONgSeIsI 

Two Copies Received 

MN .?? 1009 

Copyritf.it tntry 
CUSS 'yjlbtago 



No, I 



Copyright, 1896, 1908, by 

EATON & MAINS, 

New York. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

BAPTISM OF INFANTS 7 

BAPTISM OF ADULTS 16 

EECEPTION OF MEMBEES 29 

ADMINISTEATION OF THE LOBD'S SUPPEB 41 

SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 59 

BUEIAL OF THE DEAD 71 

CONSECEATION OF BISHOPS 87 

OEDINATION OF ELDERS 105 

OEDINATION OF DEACONS 126 

CONSECEATION OF DEACONESSES 135 

LAYING THE COENEE STONE OF A CHUECH 149 

DEDICATION OF A CHUECH. 163 



ORDER 



FOR THE 



ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM 



papttem. 



[Let every adult person, and the parents of every child to 
he baptized, have the choice of either sprinkling, pouring, or 
immersion.] 

[We will on no account whatever make a charge for admin- 
istering Baptism.] 

ORDER FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF BAP- 
TISM TO INFANTS. 

The Minister, coming to the Font, which is to he 
filled with pure Water, shall use the following : 

DEARLY Beloved, forasmuch as all 
men are conceived and born in sin, 
and that our Saviour Christ saith, Ex- 
cept a man be born of water and of 
the Spirit he cannot enter into the 
kingdom of God; I beseech you to call 
upon God the Father, through our Lord 
Jesus Christ, that having, of his boun- 
teous mercy, redeemed this child by the 
blood of his Son, he will grant that he, 
being baptized with water, may also be 



8 BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 

baptized with the Holy Ghost, be re- 
ceived into Christ's holy Church, and 
become a lively Member of the same. 

Then shall the Minister say* 
Let ns pray. 

ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, 
who of thy great mercy hast con- 
descended to enter into covenant 
relations with man, wherein thou hast 
included children as partakers of its 
gracious benefits, declaring that of such 
is thy kingdom; and in thy ancient 
Church didst appoint divers baptisms, 
figuring thereby the renewing of the 
Holy Ghost ; and by thy well-beloved 
Son Jesus Christ gavest commandment 
to thy holy Apostles to go into all the 
world and disciple all nations, baptiz- 
ing them in the name of the Father, and 
of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost : we 



BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 9 

beseech thee, that of thine infinite 
mercy thou wilt look upon this child: 
wash him and sanctify him; that he, 
being saved by thy grace, may be re- 
ceived into Christ's holy Church, and 
being steadfast in faith, joyful through 
hope, and rooted in love, may so over- 
come the evils of this present world 
that finally he may attain to everlast- 
ing life, and reign with thee, world 
without end, through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

Merciful God, grant that all carnal 
affections may die in him, and that all 
things belonging to the Spirit may live 
and grow in him. Amen. 

Grant that he may have power and 
strength to have victory, and to tri- 
umph against the devil, the world, and 
the flesh. Amen. 

Grant that whosoever is dedicated to 
thee by our office and ministry may 



10 BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 

also be endued with heavenly virtues, 
and everlastingly rewarded through 
thy mercy, blessed Lord God, who 
dost live and govern all things, world 
without end. Amen. 

Almighty, Everliving God, whose 
most dearly beloved Son Jesus Christ, 
for the forgiveness of our sins, did shed 
out of his most precious side both 
water and blood, regard, we beseech 
thee, our supplications. Sanctify this 
water for this Holy Sacrament; and 
grant that this child, now to be bap- 
tized, may receive the fullness of thy 
grace, and ever remain in the num- 
ber of thy faithful and elect children, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



Then shall the Minister address the Parents or 
Guardians as follows: 



D 



EARLY Beloved, forasmuch as this 
child is now presented by you 



BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 11 

for Christian Baptism, you must remem- 
ber that it is your part and duty to see 
that he be taught, as soon as he shall 
be able to learn, the nature and end of 
this Holy Sacrament. And that he may 
know these things the better, you shall 
call upon him to give reverent attend- 
ance upon the appointed means of 
grace, such as the ministry of the word, 
and the public and private worship of 
God ; and further, you shall provide that 
he shall read the Holy Scriptures, and 
learn the Lord's Prayer, the Ten Com- 
mandments, the Apostles' Creed, the 
Catechism, and all other things which 
a Christian ought to know and believe 
to his soul's health, in order that he 
may be brought up to lead a virtuous 
and holy life, remembering always that 
Baptism doth represent unto us that 
inward purity which disposeth us to 
follow the example of our Saviour 



12 BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 

Christ; that as he died and rose again 
for us, so should we, who are baptized, 
die unto sin and rise again unto right- 
eousness, continually mortifying all cor- 
rupt affections, and daily proceeding in 
all virtue and godliness. 

Do you therefore solemnly engage to 
fulfill these duties, so far as in you lies, 
the Lord being your helper ? 

Arts, We do. 



Then shall the People stand up, and the Minister 
shall 



Hear the words of the Gospel, written 
by St. Mark. [Chap, x, 13-16.] 

THEY brought young children to 
Christ, that he should touch them. 
And his disciples rebuked those that 
brought them. But when Jesus saw it, 
he was much displeased, and said unto 



BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 13 

them, Suffer the little children to come 
unto me, and forbid them not; for of 
such is the kingdom of God. Verily I 
say unto you, Whosoever shall not 
receive the kingdom of God as a little 
child, he shall not enter therein. And 
he took them up in his arms, put his 
hands upon them, and blessed them. 

Then the Minister shall take the Child into his 
hands, and say to the friends of the Child : 

Name this child. 

And then, naming it after them, he shall sprinkle 
or pour Water upon it, or, if desired, immerse it 
in Water, saying ; 

N., I baptize thee in the name of the 
Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister offer the following Prayer, 
the People kneeling : 

GOD of infinite mercy, the Father 
of all the faithful seed, be pleased 



o 



14 BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 

to grant unto this child an understand- 
ing mind and a sanctified heart. May 
thy providence lead him through the 
dangers, temptations, and ignorance of 
his youth, that he may never run into 
folly, nor into the evils of an unbridled 
appetite. We pray thee so to order 
the course of his life that, by good 
education, by holy examples, and by 
thy restraining and renewing grace, he 
may be led to serve thee faithfully all 
his days; so that, when he has glori- 
fied thee in his generation, and has 
served the Church on earth, he may be 
received into thine eternal kingdom, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
Almighty and Most Merciful Father, 
let thy loving mercy and compassion 
descend upon these, thy servant and 
handmaid, the parents [or guardians] 
of this child. Grant unto them, we be- 
seech thee, thy Holy Spirit, that they 



BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 15 

may, like Abraham, command their 
household to keep the way of the Lord. 
Direct their actions, and sanctify their 
hearts, words, and purposes, that their 
whole family may be united to our 
Lord Jesus Christ in the bands of faith, 
obedience, and charity; and that they 
all, being in this life thy holy children 
by adoption and grace, may be admit- 
ted into the Church of the first-born in 
heaven, through the merits of thy dear 
Son, our Saviour and Redeemer. Amen. 



Then may the Minister offer extemporary Prayer. 
Then shall "be said, all "kneeling : 

OUR Father who art in heaven, hal- 
lowed be thy name. Thy kingdom 
come. Thy will be done in earth, as it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our 



16 BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 

daily bread: and forgive us our tres- 
passes, as we forgive those who trespass 
against us : and lead us not into temp- 
tation, but deliver us from evil: for 
thine is the kingdom, and the power, 
and the glory, forever. Amen. 



ORDER FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF BAP- 
TISM TO SUCH AS ARE OF RIPER YEARS. 

DEARLY Beloved, forasmuch as all 
men are conceived and born in 
sin; and that which is born of the flesh 
is flesh, and they that are in the flesh 
cannot please God, but live in sin, com- 
mitting many actual transgressions; 
and our Saviour Christ saith, Except a 
man be born of water and of the Spirit 
he cannot enter into the kingdom of 
God : I beseech you to call upon God 
the Father, through our Lord Jesus 
Christ, that of his bounteous goodness 



BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 17 

he will grant to these persons that which 
by nature they cannot have ; that they, 
being baptized with water, may also be 
baptized with the Holy Ghost, and, 
being received into Christ's holy Church, 
may continue lively Members of the 
same. 

Then shall the Minister say ; 

Let us pray. 

A LMIGHTY and Immortal God, the 
•E*- aid of all that need, the helper 
of all that flee to thee for succor, 
the life of them that believe, and the 
resurrection of the dead : we call upon 
thee for these persons, that they, coming 
to thy Holy Baptism, may also be filled 
with thy Holy Spirit. Receive them, 
Lord, as thou hast promised by thy 
well-beloved Son, saying, Ask, and ye 
shall receive ; seek, and ye shall find ; 



18 BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 

knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 
so give now unto us that ask; let us 
that seek, find ; open the gate unto us 
that knock; that these persons may 
enjoy the everlasting benediction of 
thy heavenly washing, and may come 
to the eternal kingdom which thou 
hast promised, by Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



Then shall the People stand up, and the Minister 
shall say : 

Hear the words of the Gospel, written 
by St. John. [Chap, iii, 1-8.] 

rriHEKE was a man of the Pharisees, 
J- named Nicodemus, a ruler of the 
Jews : the same came to Jesus by night, 
and said unto him, Eabbi, we know 
that thou art a teacher come from 
God : for no man can do these miracles 



BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 19 

that thou doest, except God be with 
him. Jesus answered and said unto 
him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 
Except a man be born again, he cannot 
see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus 
saith unto him, How can a man be 
born when he is old? Can he enter 
the second time into his mother's 
womb, and be born? Jesus answered, 
Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except 
a man be born of water and of the 
Spirit, he cannot enter into the king- 
dom of God. That which is born of 
the flesh is flesh; and that which is 
born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not 
that I said unto thee, Te must be born 
again. The wind bloweth where it 
listeth, and thou hearest the sound 
thereof, but canst not tell whence it 
cometh, and whither it goeth: so is 
every one that is born of the Spirit. 



20 BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 

Then the Minister shall speak to the Persons to he 
baptized on this wise : 

TT7ELL Beloved, who have come 
* * hither desiring to receive Holy 
Baptism, you have heard how the Con- 
gregation hath prayed that our Lord 
Jesus Christ would vouchsafe to receive 
you, to bless you, and to give you the 
kingdom of heaven, and everlasting 
life. And our Lord Jesus Christ hath 
promised in his holy word to grant all 
those things that we have prayed for : 
which promise he for his part will 
most surely keep and perform. 

Wherefore, after this promise made 
by Christ, you must also faithfully, for 
your part, promise in the presence of 
this whole Congregation, that you will 
renounce the devil and all his works, 
and constantly believe God's holy word, 
and obediently keep his command- 
ments. 



BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 21 



Then shall the Minister demcmd of each of tfte 
Persons to he baptized : 

DOST thou renounce the 
devil and all his works, 
the vain pomp and glory of the world, 
with all covetous desires of the same, 
and the carnal desires of the flesh, so 
that thou wilt not follow nor be led by 
them? 

Arts. I renounce them all. 

Quest. Dost thou believe in God the 
Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and 
earth : 

And in Jesus Christ, his only begot- 
ten Son our Lord; and that he was 
conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of 
the Virgin Mary; that he suffered 
under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, 
dead, and buried; that he rose again 



22 BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 

the third day; that he ascended into 
heaven, and sitteth at the right hand 
of God the Father Almighty ; and from 
thence shall come again at the end of 
the world, to judge the quick and the 
dead? 

And dost thou believe in the Holy 
Ghost; the holy catholic* Church, the 
communion of saints ; the forgiveness 
of sins ; the resurrection of the body ; 
and everlasting life after death ? 

Ans. All this I steadfastly believe. 

Quest. Wilt thou be baptized in this 
faith? 

Ans. Such is my desire. 

Quest. Wilt thou then obediently 
keep God's holy will and command- 
ments, and walk in the same all the 
days of thy life ? 

Ans. I will endeavor so to do, God 
being my helper. 

* The one universal Church of Christ. 



BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 23 

Then shall the Minister say: 

MERCIFUL GOD, grant that all 
carnal affections may die in these 
persons, and that all things belonging 
to the Spirit may live and grow in 
them. Amen. 

Grant that they may have power and 
strength to have victory, and triumph 
against the devil, the world, and the 
flesh. Amen. 

Grant that they, being here dedicated 
to thee by our office and ministry, may 
also be endued with heavenly virtues, 
and everlastingly rewarded through 
thy mercy, blessed Lord God, who 
dost live, and govern all things, world 
without end. Amen. 

Almighty, Everliving God, whose 
most dearly beloved Son Jesus Christ, 
for the forgiveness of our sins, did shed 
out of his most precious side both 



24 BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 

water and blood; and gave command- 
ment to his disciples that they should 
go teach all nations, and baptize them 
in the name of the Father, and of the 
Son, and of the Holy Ghost; regard, 
we beseech thee, our supplications ; 
and grant that the persons now to be 
baptized may receive the fullness of 
thy grace, and ever remain in the num- 
ber of thy faithful and elect children, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister ash the name of each Per- 
son to he baptized, and shall sprinkle or pour 
Water upon him (or, if he shall desire it, shall 
immerse him in Water), saying : 

N. y I baptize thee in the name of the 
Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Then shall be said the Lord's Prayer, all kneeling; 

OUR Father who art in heaven, hal- 
lowed be thy name. Thy kingdom 



BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 25 

come. Thy will be done in earth, as it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our 
daily bread: and forgive us our tres- 
passes, as we forgive those who trespass 
against us : and lead us not into temp- 
tation, but deliver us from evil: for 
thine is the kingdom, and the power, 
and the glory, forever. Amen. 

Then may the Minister conclude with extemporary 
Prayer. 



FORM 



FOR 



RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 



deception of Jfflemto* 



FORM I. 



Those who are to he received into the Church as 
probationers shall be called forward by name, 
and the Minister, addressing the Congregation, 
shall say : 

DEARLY Beloved Brethren, that 
none may be admitted hastily 
into the Church, we receive persons 
who seek fellowship with us on pro- 
fession of faith into a preparatory 
membership; in which proof may be 
made, both to themselves and to the 
Church, of the sincerity and depth of 
their convictions and of the strength of 
their purpose to lead a new life. 



30 RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 

The persons here present desire to be 
so admitted. You will hear their an- 
swers to the questions put to them, and 
if you make no objection they will be 
received. 

It is needful, however, that you be 
reminded of your own responsibility, as 
having previously entered this holy 
fellowship and now representing the 
Church into which they seek admission. 
Remembering their inexperience, and 
how much they must learn in order to 
become good soldiers of Jesus Christ, 
see to it that they find in you holy 
examples of life, and loving help in the 
true serving of their Lord and ours. 
I beseech you so to order your own 
lives that these new disciples may take 
no detriment from you, but that it may 
ever be to them a cause for thanks- 
giving to God that they were led into 
this fellowship. 



RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 31 

Then, addressing the Persons seeking Admission, 
the Minister shall say ? 

DEARLY Beloved, you have, by 
the grace of God, made your de- 
cision to follow Christ and to serve 
him. Your confidence in so doing is 
not to be based on any notion of fit- 
ness or worthiness in yourselves, but 
solely on the merits of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, and on his death and interces- 
sion for us. 

That the Church may know your 
purpose, you will answer the questions 
I am now to ask you. 

Have you an earnest desire to be 
saved from your sins ? 

Arts. I have. 

Will you guard yourselves against 
all things contrary to the teaching of 
God's word, and endeavor to lead a 
holy life, following the commandments 
of God? 



32 RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 

Arts. I will endeavor so to do. 

Are you purposed to give reverent 
attendance upon the appointed means 
of grace in the ministry of the word, 
and the private and public worship of 
God? 

Arts. I am so determined, with the 
help of God. 

No objection being offered, the Minister shall an- 
nounce that the Candidates are admitted, and 
shall assign them to classes. 

Then shall the Minister offer extemporary Prayer. 



FORM II. 



On the day appointed, all that are to be received 
into the Church shall be called forward, and the 
Minister, addressing the Congregation, shall say: 

DEARLY Beloved Brethren, the 
Scriptures teach us that the 
Church is the household of God, the 



RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 33 

body of which Christ is the head ; and 
that it is the design of the Gospel to 
bring together in one all who are in 
Christ. The fellowship of the Church 
is the communion that its Members 
enjoy one with another. The ends of 
this fellowship are the maintenance of 
sound doctrine and of the ordinances 
of Christian worship, and the exercise 
of that power of godly admonition 
and discipline which Christ has com- 
mitted to his Church for the promotion 
of holiness. 

It is the duty of all men to unite in 
this fellowship ; for only those who are 
"planted in the house of the Lord shall 
flourish in the courts of our God." Its 
more particular duties are, to promote 
peace and unity ; to bear one another's 
burdens ; to prevent each other's stum- 
bling ; to seek the intimacy of friendly 
society among themselves; to continue 



34 RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 

steadfast in the faith and worship of 
the Gospel; and to pray and sympa- 
thize with each other. Among its 
privileges are peculiar incitements to 
holiness from the hearing of God's 
word and the sharing in Christ's ordi- 
nances; the being placed under the 
watchful care of Pastors; and the en- 
joyment of the blessings which are 
promised only to those who are of the 
Household of Faith. 

Into this holy fellowship the persons 
before you, who have already received 
the Sacrament of Baptism, and have 
been properly recommended, come 
seeking admission. We now propose, 
in the fear of God, to question them as 
to their faith and purposes, that you 
may know that they are proper persons 
to be admitted into the Church. 



RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 35 

Then, addressing the Applicants for Admission, 
the Minister shall say : 

DEARLY Beloved, you are come 
hither seeking the great privilege 
of union with the Church our Saviour 
has purchased with his own blood. 
We rejoice in the grace of God vouch- 
safed unto you in that he has called you 
to be his followers. You have heard 
how blessed are the privileges, and how 
solemn are the duties, of membership in 
Christ's Church; and before you are fully 
admitted thereto, it is proper that you 
do here publicly renew your vows, con- 
fess your faith, and declare your pur- 
pose, by answering the following ques- 
tions : 

Do you here, in the presence of God 
and of this congregation, renew the 
solemn promise contained in the Bap- 
tismal Covenant, ratifying and confirm- 



36 RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 

ing the same, and acknowledging your- 
selves bound faithfully to observe and 
keep that Covenant? 

Ans. I do. 

Have you saving faith in the Lord 
Jesus Christ? 

Ans. I trust I have. 

Do you believe in the Doctrines of 
the Holy Scriptures as set forth in the 
Articles of Religion of the Methodist. 
Episcopal Church? 

Ans. I do. 

Will you cheerfully be governed by 
the Rules of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, hold sacred the Ordinances of 
God, and endeavor, as much as in you 
lies, to promote the welfare of your 
brethren and the advancement of the 
Redeemer's kingdom? 

Ans. I will. 

Will you contribute of your earthly 
substance, according to your ability, 



RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 37 

to the support of the Gospel and the 
various benevolent enterprises of the 
Church? 
Arts. I will. 



Then the Minister, addressing the Church, shall say: 

BRETHREN, these persons having 
given satisfactory responses to our 
inquiries, have any of you reason to 
allege why they should not be received 
into membership in the Church ? 



No objections being alleged, the Minister shall say 
to the Candidates : 

WE welcome you to the communion 
of the Church of God; and, in 
testimony of our Christian affection 
and the cordiality with which we re- 
ceive you, I hereby extend to you the 
right hand of fellowship : and may God 



38 RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. 

grant that you may be a faithful and 
useful member of the Church militant 
till you are called to the fellowship of 
the Church triumphant, which is " with- 
out fault before the throne of God." 

Then shall the Minister offer extemporary Prayer. 



ORDER 



FOR THE 



ADMINISTRATION OF THE LORD'S SUPPER. 



tTOfje Horb'g Supper. 



[Whenever practicable, let none but the pure, unfermented juice 
of the grape be used in administering the Lord's Supper.] 

[Let persons who have scruples concerning the receiving of the 
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper kneeling be permitted to receive it 
either standing or sitting.] 

[No person shall be admitted to the Lord's Supper among us 
who is guilty of any practice for which we would exclude a member 
of our Church.] 

ORDER FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE 
LORD'S SUPPER. 

The Elder shall say one or more of these Sentences, 
during the reading of which the I > erso?is appointed 
for that purpose shall receive the Alms for the Poor: 

IET your light so shine before men, 
^ that they may see your good 
works, and glorify your Father which 
is in heaven. [Matt, v, 16.] 

Lay not up for yourselves treasures 
upon earth, where moth and rust doth 
corrupt, and where thieves break 
through and steal: but lay up for 
yourselves treasures in heaven, where 
neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, 
and where thieves do not break 
through nor steal. [Matt, vi, 19, 20.] 



42 THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

Whatsoever ye would that men 
should do to you, do ye even so to 
them : for this is the law and the 
prophets. [Matt. vii, 12.] 

Not every one that saith unto me, 
Lord, Lord, shall enter into the king- 
dom of heaven ; but he that doeth the 
will of my Father which is in heaven. 
[Matt, vii, 21.] 

Zaccheus stood, and said unto . the 
Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my 
goods I give to the poor; and if I 
have taken anything from any man by 
false accusation, I restore him fourfold. 
[Luke xix, 8.] 

He which soweth sparingly shall 
reap also sparingly; and he which 
soweth bountifully shall reap also boun- 
tifully. Every man according as he 
purposeth in his heart, so let him give ; 
not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God 
loveth a cheerful giver. [2 Cor. ix, 6, 7.] 



THE LORD'S SUPPER. 43 

As we have therefore opportunity, 
let us do good unto all men, especially 
unto them who are of the household of 
faith. [Gal. vi, 10.] 

Godliness with contentment is great 
gain ; for we brought nothing into this 
world, and it is certain we can carry 
nothing out. [1 Tim. vi, 6, 7.] 

Charge them that are rich in this 
world, that they be not high-minded, 
nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the 
living God, who giveth us richly all 
things to enjoy; that they do good, 
that they be rich in good works, ready 
to distribute, willing to communicate; 
laying up in store for themselves a 
good foundation against the time to 
come, that they may lay hold on eter- 
nal life. [1 Tim. vi, 17-19.] 

God is not unrighteous to forget your 
work and labor of love, which ye have 
showed toward his name, in that ye 



44 THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

have ministered to the saints, and do 
minister. [Heb. vi, 10.] 

To do good and to communicate for- 
get not; for with such sacrifices God 
is well pleased. [Heb. xiii, 16.] 

Whoso hath this world's good, and 
seeth his brother have need, and shut- 
teth up his bowels of compassion from 
him, how dwelleth the love of God in 
him? [1 John iii, 17.] 

He that hath pity upon the poor 
lendeth unto the Lord ; and that which 
he hath given will he pay him again. 
[Prov. xix, 17.] 

Blessed is he that considereth the 
poor: the Lord will deliver him in 
time of trouble. [Psalm xli, 1.] 

Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto 
thy brother, to thy poor. [Deut. xv, 11.] 

After which the Elder shall give the following 
Invitation, the People standing : 

IP any man sin, we have an advocate 
with the Father, Jesus Christ the 



THE LORD'S SUPPER. 45 

righteous : and he is the propitiation 
for our sins : and not for ours only, but 
also for the sins of the whole world. 

Wherefore ye that do truly and 
earnestly repent of your sins, and are 
in love and charity with your neigh- 
bors, and intend to lead a new life, 
following the commandments of God, 
and walking from henceforth in his 
holy ways, draw near with faith, and 
take this Holy Sacrament to your com- 
fort; and, devoutly kneeling, make 
your humble confession to Almighty 
God. 

Then shall this general Confession he made by the 
Minister in the name of all those who are 
minded to receive the Holy Communion, both he 
and all the People devoutly kneeling, and saying : 

ALMIGHTY God, Father of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, Maker of all 
things, Judge of all men, we acknowl- 
edge and bewail our manifold sins and 



46 THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

wickedness, which we from time to 
time most grievously have committed, 
by thought, word, and deed, against 
thy Divine Majesty, provoking most 
justly thy wrath and indignation 
against us. We do earnestly repent, 
and are heartily sorry for these our 
misdoings; the remembrance of them 
is grievous unto us. Have mercy upon 
us, have mercy upon us, most merciful 
Father ; for thy Son, our Lord Jesus 
Christ's sake, forgive us all that is past ; 
and grant that we may ever hereafter 
serve and please thee in newness of 
life, to the honor and glory of thy 
name, through Jesus Christ our Lord* 
Amen. 

Then shall the Elder say: 

A LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Fa- 
-£*- ther, who of thy great mercy 
hast promised forgiveness of sins to all 



THE LORD'S SUPPER. 47 

them that with hearty repentance and 
true faith turn unto thee, have mercy 
upon us; pardon and deliver us from 
all our sins ; confirm and strengthen us 
in all goodness ; and bring us to ever- 
lasting life, through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY God, unto whom all 
-£-*- hearts are open, all desires known, 
and from whom no secrets are hid, 
cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by 
the inspiration of thy Holy Spirit, that 
we may perfectly love thee, and wor- 
thily magnify thy holy name, through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Then shall the Elder say : 

TT7E do not presume to come to this 
* " thy table, merciful Lord, trust- 
ing in our own righteousness, but in 



48 THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

thy manifold and great mercies. We 
are not worthy so much as to gather 
up the crumbs under thy table. But 
thou art the same Lord, whose prop- 
erty is always to have mercy. Grant 
us, therefore, gracious Lord, so to eat 
the flesh of thy dear Son Jesus Christ, 
and to drink his blood, that we may 
live and grow thereby; and that, be- 
ing washed through his most precious 
blood, we may evermore dwell in him, 
and he in us. Amen. 

Then the Elder shall offer the Prayer of Consecra- 
tion, asfolloweth : 

\ LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Fa- 
-£*■ ther, who of thy tender mercy 
didst give thine only Son Jesus Christ 
to suffer death upon the cross for our 
redemption; who made there, by his 
oblation of himself once offered, a full, 
perfect, and sufficient sacrifice, oblation, 
and satisfaction for the sins of the 



THE LORD'S SUPPER. 49 

whole world; and did institute, and in 
his holy Gospel command us to con- 
tinue, a perpetual memory of his pre- 
cious death until his coming again : hear 
us, merciful Father, we most humbly 
beseech thee, and grant that we, receiv- 
ing these thy creatures of bread and 
wine, according to thy Son our Saviour 
Jesus Christ's holy institution, in remem- 
brance of his death and passion, may be 
partakers of his most blessed body and 
blood ; who, in the same night that he 
was betrayed, took bread ; (*) and when 

he had given thanks, he Q)jSere the Elder 

hrnkp it anrl o^vp it mc ^y take the plate 
Dro^e it, ana gave it ojff hread in Us 

to his disciples, saying, hand. 

Take, eat ; this is my body which is given 

for you ; do this in remembrance of me. 

Likewise after supper /0N ^ , 

ri ( 2 ) Mere he may 

he took ( 2 ) the cup ; and take the cup in his 

when he had given 

thanks, he gave it to them, saying, 



50 THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

Drink ye all of this; for this is my 
blood of the New Testament, which is 
shed for you, and for many, for the re- 
mission of sins ; do this, as oft as ye shall 
drink it, in remembrance of me. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister receive the Communion 
in both kinds, and proceed to deliver the same to 
the other Ministers, if any be present / after 
which he shall say : 

IT is very meet, right, and our 
bounden duty that we should at 
all times and in all places give thanks 
unto thee, Lord, holy Father, Al- 
mighty, Everlasting God. 

Therefore with angels and arch- 
angels, and with all the company of 
heaven, we laud and magnify thy glori- 
ous name, evermore praising thee, and 
saying, Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of 
Hosts, heaven and earth are full of thy 
glory. Glory be to thee, Lord most 
high ! Amen. 



THE LORD'S SUPPER. 51 

The Minister shall then proceed to administer the 
Communion to the People in order, kneeling, 
into their uncovered hands ; and when he deliv- 
ereth the Bread, he shall say : 

^PHE body of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
-■- which was given for thee, preserve 
thy soul and body unto everlasting life. 
Take and eat this in remembrance that 
Christ died for thee; and feed on him in 
thy heart by faith, with thanksgiving. 

And the Mmister that delivereth the Cup shall say : 

rilHE blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
J- which was shed for thee, preserve 
thy soul and body unto everlasting life. 
Drink this in remembrance that Christ's 
blood was shed for thee, and be thankful. 

[If the Consecrated bread or wine shall be all spent before 
all have communed, the Elder may Consecrate more by re- 
peating the Prayer of Consecration. J 

[When all have communed, the Minister shall return to 
the Lord's table and place upon it what remaineth of the 
Consecrated elements, covering the same with a fair linen 
cloth.] 



52 THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

Then shall the Elder say the Lord's Prayer ; the 
People kneeling, and repeating after him every 
petition : 

OUR Father who art in heaven, hal- 
lowed be thy name. Thy kingdom 
come. Thy will be done in earth, as it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our 
daily bread: and forgive us our tres- 
passes, as we forgive those who trespass 
against us : and lead us not into temp- 
tation, but deliver us from evil: for 
thine is the kingdom, and the power, 
and the glory, forever. Amen. 

After which shall he said asfolloweth: 

OLORD our heavenly Father, we 
thy humble servants desire thy 
Fatherly goodness mercifully to accept 
this our sacrifice of praise and thanks- 
giving; most humbly beseeching thee 
to grant, that, by the merits and death 
of thy Son Jesus Christ, and through 



THE LORD'S SUPPER. 53 

faith in his blood, we and thy whole 
Church may obtain forgiveness of our 
sins, and all other benefits of his pas- 
sion. And here we offer and present 
unto thee, Lord, ourselves, our souls 
and bodies, to be a reasonable, holy, 
and lively sacrifice unto thee ; humbly 
beseeching thee that all we who are 
partakers of this Holy Communion may 
be filled with thy grace and heavenly 
benediction. And although we be 
unworthy, through our manifold sins, 
to offer unto thee any sacrifice, yet we 
beseech thee to accept this our bounden 
duty and service ; not weighing our 
merits, but pardoning our offenses, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord; by 
whom, and with whom, in the unity of 
the Holy Ghost, all honor and glory be 
unto thee, Father Almighty, world 
without end. Amen. 



54 THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

Then shall "be said or sung : 

GLORY be to God on high, and 
on earth peace, good will toward 
men ! We praise thee, we bless thee, 
we worship thee, we glorify thee, we 
give thanks to thee for thy great glory, 
Lord God, heavenly King, God the 
Father Almighty ! 

Lord, the only-begotten Son Jesus 
Christ: Lord God, Lamb of God, 
Son of the Father, that takest away the 
sins of the world, have mercy upon us. 
Thou that takest away the sins of the 
world, have mercy upon us. Thou that 
takest away the sins of the world, re- 
ceive our prayer. Thou that sittest at 
the right hand of God the Father, 
have mercy upon us. For thou only 
art holy ; thou only art the Lord ; thou 
only, Christ, with the Holy Ghost, 
art most high in the glory of God the 
Father. Amen. 



THE LORD'S SUPPER. 55 

Then the Elder , if he see it expedient, may put up 
an extemporary Prayer / and afterward shall let 
the People depart with this Blessing : 

npHE peace of God, which passeth all 
J- understanding, keep your hearts 
and minds in the knowledge and love 
of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ 
our Lord : and the blessing of God 
Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the 
Holy Ghost, be among you, and remain 
with you always. Amen. 

N. B. — If the Elder be straitened for time in the usual 
administration of the Holy Communion, he may omit any 
part of the service except the Invitation, the Confession, and 
the Prayer of Consecration; and in its administration to the 
Sick he may omit any part of the service except the Confes- 
sion, the Prayer of Consecration, and the usual sentences in 
delivering the Bread and Wine, closing with the Lord's 
Prayer, extempore supplication, and the Benediction. 



FORM 



FOR THE 



SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 



Jflatrtmonp. 



FORM FOR THE SOLEMNIZATION OF 
MATRIMONY. 

[The parts in brackets throughout may be used or not at 
discretion.] 

At the day and time appointed for the Solemniza- 
tion of Matrimony, the persons to he married — 
having oeen qualified according to law — stand- 
ing together, the Man on the right hand and the 
Woman on the left, the Minister shall say : 

DEARLY Beloved, we are gathered 
together here in the sight of God, 
and in the presence of these witnesses, 
to join together this man and this 
woman in holy Matrimony; which is an 
honorable estate, instituted of God in 
the time of man's innocency, signifying 
unto us the mystical union that exists 



60 SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 

between Christ and his Church ; which 
holy estate Christ adorned and beauti- 
fied with his presence, and first miracle 
that he wrought, in Cana of Galilee, 
and is commended by Saint Paul to be 
honorable among all men; and there- 
fore is not by any to be entered into 
unadvisedly, but reverently, discreetly, 
and in the fear of God. 

Into which holy estate these two 
persons present come now to be joined. 
Therefore if any can show just cause 
why they may not lawfully be joined 
together, let him now speak, or else 
hereafter forever hold his peace. 



[ And also speaking unto the persons that are to he 
married, the Minister shall say : 

I REQUIRE and charge you both, 
that if either of you know any im- 
pediment why you may not be lawfully 



SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 61 

joined together in Matrimony, you do 
now confess it : for be ye well assured, 
that so many as are coupled together 
otherwise than God's word doth allow, 
are not joined together by God, neither 
is their Matrimony lawful.] 



If no impediment he alleged, then shall the Minister 
say unto the Man: 

M., wilt thou have this woman to be 
thy wedded wife, to live together after 
God's ordinance in the holy estate of 
Matrimony ? Wilt thou love her, com- 
fort her, honor and keep her, in sick- 
ness and in health; and forsaking all 
other, keep thee only unto her, so long 
as ye both shall live ? 



The Man shall answer: 

I will. 



62 SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 

Then shall the Minister say unto the Woman: 

N h wilt thou have this man to be thy 
wedded husband, to live together after 
God's ordinance in the holy estate of 
Matrimony? Wilt thou love, honor, 
and keep him, in sickness and in 
health; and forsaking all other, keep 
thee only unto him, so long as ye both 
shall live ? 

The Woman shall answer: 
I will. 

[ Then the Minister shall cause the Man with his 
right hand to take the Woman by her right hand, 
and to say after him asfolloweth : 

M., take thee, N., to be my wedded 
■*-9 wife, to have and to hold, from this 
day forward, for better, for worse, for 
richer, for poorer, in sickness and in 
health, to love and to cherish, till 
death us do part, according to God's 



SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 63 

holy ordinance; and thereto I plight 
thee my faith. 

Then shall they loose their hands , and the Woman, 
with her right hand taking the Man by his right 
hand, shall likewise say after the Minister : 

IN., take thee, M., to be my wedded 
3 husband, to have and to hold, from 
this day forward, for better, for worse, 
for richer, for poorer, in sickness and 
in health, to love and to cherish, till 
death us do part, according to God's 
holy ordinance; and thereto I plight 
thee my faith.] 

Then shall the Minister pray thus : 

ETERNAL GOD, Creator and 
Preserver of all mankind, Giver 
of all spiritual grace, the Author of 
everlasting life : send thy blessing upon 
these thy servants, this man and this 
woman, whom we bless in thy name ; 



64 SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 

that as Isaac and Kebecca lived faith- 
fully together, so these persons may 
surely perform and keep the vow and 
covenant between them made, and may 
ever remain in perfect love and peace 
together, and live according to thy 
laws, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

[If the parties desire it, the Man shall here hand a 
Ring to the Minister, who shall return it to him, 
and direct him to place it on the third jmger of 
the Woman's left hand. And the Man shall say 
to the Woman, repeating after the Minister : 

TT77TH this ring I thee wed, and 
" ™ with my worldly goods I thee 
endow, in the name of the Father, and 
of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 
Amen.~\ 

Then shall the Minister join their right hands 
together, and say : 



F 



ORASMUCH as M. and N. have 
consented together in holy wed- 



SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 65 

lock, and have witnessed the same 
before God and this company, and 
thereto have pledged their faith either 
to other, and have declared the same 
by joining of hands; I pronounce that 
they are husband and wife together, in 
the name of the Father, and of the Son, 
and of the Holy Ghost. Those whom 
God hath joined together, let no man 
put asunder. Amen. 



And the Minister shall add this blessing: 

GOD, the Father, the Son, and the 
Holy Ghost, bless, preserve, and 
keep you; the Lord mercifully with 
his favor look upon you, and so fill 
you with all spiritual benediction and 
grace that ye may so live together in 
this life that in the world to come ye 
may have life everlasting. Amen. 



66 SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 

Then shall the Minister offer the following Pray en 

OGOD of Abraham, God of Isaac, 
God of Jacob, bless this man and 
this woman, and sow the seed of eter- 
nal life in their hearts, that whatsoever 
in thy holy word they shall profitably 
learn, they may indeed fulfill the same. 
Look, Lord, mercifully on them from 
heaven, and bless them : as thou didst 
send thy blessings upon Abraham and 
Sarah to their great comfort, so vouch- 
safe to send thy blessings upon this 
man and this woman, that they, obey- 
ing thy will, and always being in safety 
under thy protection, may abide in thy 
love unto their lives' end, through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Almighty God, who at the beginning 
didst create our first parents, Adam 
and Eve, and didst sanctify and join 
them together in marriage, pour upon 



SOLEMNIZATION OF MATRIMONY. 67 

these persons the riches of thy grace, 
sanctify and bless them, that they may 
please thee both in body and soul, and 
live together in holy love unto their 
lives' end. Amen. 

Mere the Minister may use extemporary Prayer. 

Then the Minister shall repeat the Lord's Prayer : 

OUR Father who art in heaven, hal- 
lowed be thy name. Thy king- 
dom come. Thy will be done in earth, 
as it is in heaven. Give us this day 
our daily bread : and forgive us our 
trespasses, as we forgive those who 
trespass against us : and lead us not 
into temptation, but deliver us from 
evil : for thine is the kingdom, and the 
power, and the glory, forever. Amen. 



FORM 



FOR 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD 



purtal of tfje Beat. 



[We will on no account whatever make a charge for 
burying the dead.] 



FORM FOR THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

The Minister •, going before the Corpse, shall say : 

T AM the resurrection, and the life : 
-L he that believeth in me, though he 
were dead, yet shall he live : and who- 
soever liveth and believeth in me shall 
never die. [John xi, 25, 26.] 

I KNOW that my Redeemer liveth, 
and that he shall stand at the lat- 
ter day upon the earth: and though 
after my skin worms destroy this body, 
yet in my flesh shall T see (*od: whom 
I shall see for niys^., and mine eyes 



72 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

shall behold, and not another. [Job xix, 
25-27.] 

WE brought nothing into this world, 
and it is certain we can carry 
nothing out. The Lord gave, and the 
Lord hath taken away ; blessed be the 
name of the Lord. [1 Tim. vi, 7 ; Job 
i, 21.] 

In the House or Church may he read one or loth of 
the following Psalms, or some other suitable por- 
tion of the Holy Scriptures : 

Psalm xxxix : 

I SAID, I will take heed to my ways, 
that I sin not with my tongue : I 
will keep my mouth with a bridle, while 
the wicked is before me. I was dumb 
with silence, I held my peace, even from 
good; and my sorrow was stirred. My 
heart was hot within me; while I was 
musing the fire burned: then spake I 
with my tongue, Lord, make me to 
know mine end, and the measure of my 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 73 

days, what it is ; that I may know how 
frail I am. Behold, thou hast made 
my days as a handbreadth ; and mine 
age is as nothing before thee : verily 
every man at his best state is altogether 
vanity. Surely every man walketh in 
a vain show : surely they are disquieted 
in vain: he heapeth up riches, and 
knoweth not who shall gather them. 
And now, Lord, what wait I for ? my 
hope is in thee. Deliver me from all 
my transgressions : make me not the 
reproach of the foolish. I was dumb, I 
opened not my mouth; because thou 
didst it. Remove thy stroke away from 
me; I am consumed by the blow of 
thine hand. When thou with rebukes 
dost correct man for iniquity, thou 
makest his beauty to consume away 
like a moth : surely every man is van- 
ity. Hear my prayer, Lord, and 
give ear unto my cry; hold not thy 



74 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

peace at my tears : for I am a stranger 
with thee, and a sojourner, as all my 
fathers were. spare me, that I may 
recover strength, before I go hence, 
and be no more. 



Psalm xc : 

rORD, thou hast been our dwelling- 
^ place in all generations. Before 
the mountains were brought forth, or 
ever thou hadst formed the earth and 
the world, even from everlasting to 
everlasting, thou art God. Thou turn- 
est man to destruction; and say est, 
Return, ye children of men. For a 
thousand years in thy sight are but as 
yesterday when it is past, and as a 
watch in the night. Thou carriest them 
away as with a flood: they are as a 
sleep : in the morning they are like 
grass which groweth up. In the morn- 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 75 

ing it flourisheth, and groweth up ; in 
the evening it is cut down, and wither- 
eth. For we are consumed by thine 
anger, and by thy wrath are we troub- 
led. Thou hast set our iniquities be- 
fore thee, our secret sins in the light of 
thy countenance. For all our days are 
passed away in thy wrath : we spend 
our years as a tale that is told. The 
days of our years are threescore years 
and ten ; and if by reason of strength 
they be fourscore years, yet is their 
strength labor and sorrow; for it is 
soon cut off, and we fly away. Who 
knoweth the power of thine anger? 
even according to thy fear, so is thy 
wrath. So teach us to number our 
days, that we may apply our hearts 
unto wisdom. Return, Lord, how 
long ? and let it repent thee concerning 
thy servants. satisfy us early with 
thy mercy; that we may rejoice and 



76 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

be glad all our days. Make us glad 
according to the days wherein thou 
hast afflicted us, and the years wherein 
we have seen evil. Let thy work ap- 
pear unto thy servants, and thy glory 
unto their children. And let the beauty 
of the Lord our God be upon us : and 
establish thou the work of our hands 
upon us ; yea, the work of our hands 
establish thou it. 

Then may follow the reading of the Epistle, as 
follows : 

1 Corinthians xv ; 41-58: 

There is one glory of the sun, and 
another glory of the moon, and another 
glory of the stars ; for one star differ- 
eth from another star in glory. So 
also is the resurrection of the dead. It 
is sown in corruption, it is raised in in- 
corruption : it is sown in dishonor, it is 
raised in glory : it is sown in weakness, 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 77 

it is raised in power : it is sown a natu- 
ral body, it is raised a spiritual body. 
There is a natural body, and there is a 
spiritual body. And so it is written, 
The first man Adam was made a living 
soul ; the last Adam was made a quick- 
ening spirit. Howbeit that was not 
first which is spiritual, but that which 
is natural ; and afterward that which is 
spiritual. The first man is of the earth, 
earthy : the second man is the Lord 
from heaven. As is the earthy, such 
are they also that are earthy : and as is 
the heavenly, such are they also that 
are heavenly. And as we have borne 
the image of the earthy, we shall also 
bear the image of the heavenly. Now 
this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood 
cannot inherit the kingdom of God ; nei- 
ther doth corruption inherit incorrup- 
tion. Behold, I show you a mystery; 
We shall not all sleep, but we shall all 



78 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

be changed, in a moment, in the twink- 
ling of an eye, at the last trump : for 
the trumpet shall sound, and the dead 
shall be raised incorruptible, and we 
shall be changed. For this corruptible 
must put on incorruption, and this mor- 
tal must put on immortality. So when 
this corruptible shall have put on incor- 
ruption, and this mortal shall have put 
on immortality, then shall be brought 
to pass the saying that is written, Death 
is swallowed up in victory. death, 
where is thy sting ? grave, w T here is 
thy victory ? The sting of death is sin ; 
and the strength of sin is the law. But 
thanks be to God, which giveth us the 
victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye 
steadfast, unmovable, always abound- 
ing in the work of the Lord, forasmuch 
as ye know that your labor is not in 
vain in the Lord. 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 79 



At the gram, when the Corpse is laid in the Earth, 

the Minister shall say : 



M 



AN that is born of a woman hath 
but a short time to live, and is 
full of misery. He cometh up, and is 
cut down like a flower : he fleeth as it 
were a shadow, and never continueth 
in one stay. • 

In the midst of life we are in death: 
of whom may we seek for succor, but 
of thee, Lord, who for our sins art 
justly displeased ? 

Yet, Lord God most holy, Lord 
most mighty, holy and most merciful 
Saviour, deliver us not into the bitter 
pains of eternal death. 

Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of 
our hearts; shut not thy merciful ears 
to our prayers, but spare us, Lord most 
holy; God most mighty, holy and 
merciful Saviour, thou most worthy 



80 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

Judge eternal, suffer us not at our 
last hour for any pains of death to 
fall from thee. 



Then, while the Earth shall be cast upon the Booty 
by some standing by, the Minister shall say : 

TfORASMUCH as it hath pleased 
-*- •Almighty God, in his wise provi- 
dence, to take out of the world the 
soul of the departed, we therefore com- 
mit Ms body to the ground, earth to 
earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust; 
looking for the general resurrection 
in the last day, and the life of the 
world to come, through our Lord Je- 
sus Christ; at whose second coming in 
glorious majesty to judge the world, 
the earth and the sea shall give up 
their dead ; and the corruptible bodies 
of those who sleep in him shall be 
changed and made like unto his own 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 81 

glorious body ; according to the mighty 
working whereby he is able to subdue 
all things unto himself. 

Then shall he said : 

I HEARD a voice from heaven say- 
ing unto me, Write, From hence- 
forth blessed are the dead who die in 
the Lord : Even so, saith the Spirit ; for 
they rest from their labors. 

Then shall the Minister say : 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 
Christ, have mercy upon us. 
Lord, have mercy upon us. 

Then the Minister may offer this Prayer : 

i LMIGHTY GOD, with whom do 
-£^- live the spirits of those who depart 
hence in the Lord, and with whom the 
souls of the faithful, after they are 



82 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

delivered from the burden of the flesh, 
are in joy and felicity: we give thee 
hearty thanks for the good examples 
of all those thy servants, who, having 
finished their course in faith, do now 
rest from their labors. And we be- 
seech thee, that we, with all those who 
are departed in the true faith of thy 
holy name, may have our perfect con- 
summation and bliss, both in body and 
soul, in thy eternal and everlasting 
glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

The Collect 

MERCIFUL GOD, the Father of 
our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the 
resurrection and the life; in whom 
whosoever believeth shall live, though 
he die, and whosoever liveth and be- 
lieveth in him shall not die eternally : 
we meekly beseech thee, Father, to 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD.. 83 

raise us from the death of sin unto 
the life of righteousness ; that when we 
shall depart this life we may rest in 
him; and at the general resurrection 
on the last day may be found accept- 
able in thy sight, and receive that 
blessing which thy well-beloved Son 
shall then pronounce to all that love 
and fear thee, saying, Come, ye blessed 
children of my Father, receive the 
kingdom prepared for you from the 
beginning of the world. Grant this, 
we beseech thee, Merciful Father, 
through Jesus Christ our Mediator and 
Redeemer. Amen. 

OUR Father who art in heaven, hal- 
lowed be thy name. Thy kingdom 
come. Thy will be done in earth, as it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our 
daily bread: and forgive us our tres- 
passes, as we forgive those who trespass 



84 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

against us : and lead us not into temp- 
tation, but deliver us from evil: for 
thine is the kingdom, and the power, 
and the glory, forever. Amen. 

THE grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
and the love of God, and the fel- 
lowship of the Holy Ghost, b.e with us 
all evermore. Amen. 



FORMS 



Of 



CONSECRATION AND ORDINATION 



Consecration. 



FORM OF CONSECRATING BISHOPS. 

[This service is not to be understood as an ordination to 
a higher Order in the Christian Ministry, beyond and above 
that of Elders or Presbyters, bnt as a solemn and fitting 
Consecration for the special and most sacred duties of Super- 
intendency in the Church.] 

THE FORM OF CONSECRATING BISHOPS. 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who by thy Son 
Jesus Christ didst give to thy holy 
Apostles, Elders, and Evangelists many 
excellent gifts, and didst charge them 
to feed thy flock : give grace, we be- 
seech thee, to all the Ministers and 
Pastors of thy Church, that they may 
diligently preach thy word and duly 
administer the godly discipline there- 
of; and grant to the People that they 
may obediently follow the same, that all 



88 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

may receive the crown of everlasting 
glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

Then shall he read hy one of the Elders: 

The Epistle. Acts xx, 17-35. 

T7R0M Miletus Paul sent to Ephesus, 
-*- and called the elders of the Church. 
And when they were come to him,, he 
said unto thein, Ye know, from the first 
day that I came to Asia, after what 
manner I have been with you at all 
seasons, serving the Lord with all hu- 
mility of mind, and with many tears, 
and temptations, which befell me by 
the lying in wait of the Jews : and how 
I kept back nothing that was profitable 
unto you, but have showed you, and 
have taught you publicly, and from 
house to house, testifying both to the 
Jews, and also to the Greeks, repent- 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 89 

ance toward God, and faith toward our 
Lord Jesus Christ. And now, behold, I 
go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, 
not knowing the things that shall befall 
me there : save that the Holy Ghost 
witnesseth in every city, saying that 
bonds and afflictions abide me. But 
none of these things move me, neither 
count I my life dear unto myself, so that 
I might finish my course with joy, and 
the ministry, which I have received of 
the Lor$ Jesus, to testify the Gospel of 
the grace of God. And now, behold, I 
know that ye all, among whom I have 
gone preaching the kingdom of God, 
shall see my face no more. Wherefore 
I take you to record this day, that I 
am pure from the blood of all men. 
Tor I have not shunned to declare unto 
you all the counsel of God. Take heed 
therefore unto yourselves, and to all 
the flock, over the which the Holy 



90 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed 
the Church of God, which he hath pur- 
chased with his own blood. For I 
know this, that after my departing 
shall grievous wolves enter in among 
you, not sparing the flock. Also of 
your own selves shall men arise, speak- 
ing perverse things, to draw away 
disciples after them. Therefore watch, 
and remember, that by the space of 
three years I ceased not to warn 
every one night and day with tears. 
And now, brethren, I commend you to 
God, and to the word of his grace, 
which is able to build you up, and 
to give you an inheritance among 
all them which are sanctified. I have 
coveted no man's silver, or gold, or 
apparel. Yea, ye yourselves know, that 
these hands have ministered unto my 
necessities, and to them that were with 
me. I have showed you all things, 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 91 

how that so laboring ye ought to sup- 
port the weak, and to remember the 
words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, 
It is more blessed to give than to 
receive. 



j 



Then another shall read : 
The Gospel St. John xxi, 15-17. 
ESUS saith to Simon Peter, Simon, 



son of Jonas, lovest thou me more 
than these ? He saith unto him, Tea, 
Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. 
He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. 
He saith to him again the second time, 
Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? 
He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou 
knowest that I love thee. He saith 
unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith 
unto him the third time, Simon, son 
of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was 
grieved because he said unto him the 



92 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

third time, Lovest thou me ? And he 
said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all 
things; thou knowest that I love thee. 
Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 

Or this: St. Matthew xxviii, 18-20. 

TESUS came and spake unto them, 
*J saying, All power is given unto me 
in heaven and in earth. Go ye there- 
fore, and teach all nations, baptizing 
them in the name of the Father, and 
of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost : 
teaching them to observe all things 
whatsoever I have commanded you : 
and, lo, I am with you alway, even 
unto the end of the world. 



After the Gospel mid the Sermon are ended, the 
Elected Person shall he presented by two Elders 
unto the Bishop, saying : 



W 



E present unto you this holy man 
to be consecrated a Bishop. 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 93 

Then the Bishop shall move the Congregation pres- 
ent to pray, saying thus to them : 

BRETHREN, it is written in the 
Gospel of Saint Luke that our 
Saviour Christ continued the whole 
night in prayer before he did choose 
and send forth his twelve Apostles. It 
is written also in the Acts of the Apos- 
tles that the disciples who were at 
Antioch did fast and pray before they 
laid hands on Paul and Barnabas, and 
sent them forth on their first mission 
to the Gentiles. Let us therefore, fol- 
lowing the example of our Saviour 
Christ, and his Apostles, first fall to 
prayer before we admit and send forth 
this person presented to us to the work 
whereunto we trust the Holy Ghost 
hath called him. 

Then shall the following Prayer he offered: 

ALMIGHTY GOD, Giver of all good 
things, who by thy Holy Spirit 



94 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

hast appointed divers Offices in thy 
Church: mercifully behold this thy 
servant now called to the Work and 
Ministry of a Bishop, and replenish him 
so with the truth of thy doctrine, and 
adorn him with innocency of life, that 
both by word and deed he may faith- 
fully serve thee in this Office, to the 
glory of thy name, and the edifying 
and well governing of thy Church, 
through the merits of our Saviour 
Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth 
with thee and the Holy Ghost, world 
without end. Amen. 

Then the Hishop shall say to him that is to he 

Consecrated : 

"DROTHER, forasmuch as the Holy 
■*-* Scriptures command that we should 
not be hasty in laying on hands and 
admitting any person to government in 
the Church of Christ, which he hath 
purchased with no less price than the 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 95 

shedding of his own blood ; before you 
are admitted to this administration, 
you will, in the fear of God, give 
answer to the questions which I now 
propound : 

Are you persuaded that you are 
truly called to this Ministration, ac- 
cording to the will of our Lord Jesus 
Christ ? 

Arts. I am so persuaded. 

The Bishop. Are you persuaded that 
the Holy Scriptures contain sufficiently 
all doctrine required of necessity for 
eternal salvation, through faith in 
Jesus Christ? And are you deter- 
mined out of the same Holy Scrip- 
tures to instruct the people committed 
to your charge, and to teach or main- 
tain nothing as required of necessity to 
eternal salvation but that which you 
shall be persuaded may be concluded 
and proved by the same ? 



96 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

Ans. I am so persuaded and deter- 
mined, by God's grace. 

The Bishop. Will you then faithfully 
exercise yourself in the same Holy 
Scriptures, and call upon God by 
prayer for the true understanding of 
the same, so that you may be able by 
them to teach and exhort with whole- 
some doctrine, and to withstand and 
convince the gainsay ers ? 

Ans. I will do so, by the help of 
God. 

The Bishop. Are you ready with 
faithful diligence to banish and drive 
away all erroneous and strange doc- 
trines contrary to God's word, and 
both privately and openly to call upon 
and encourage others to the same ? 

Ans. I am ready, the Lord being 
my helper. 

The Bishop. Will you deny all ungod- 
liness and worldly lust, and live soberly, 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 97 

righteously, and godly in this present 
world, that you may show yourself in 
all things an example of good works 
unto others, that the adversary may 
be ashamed, having nothing to say 
against you ? 

Ans. I will do so, the Lord being my 
helper. 

TJie Bishop. Will you maintain and 
set forward, as much as shall lie in 
you, quietness, love, and peace among 
all men ; and such as shall be unquiet, 
disobedient, and criminal, correct and 
punish according to such authority as 
you have by God's word, and as shall 
be committed unto you ? 

Ans. I will do so, by the help of 
God. 

The Bishop. Will you be faithful in 
Ordaining, or laying hands upon and 
sending others, and in all the other 
duties of your office ? 



98 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

Ans. I will so be, by the help of 
God. 

Ihe Bishop. Will you show yourself 
gentle, and be merciful, for Christ's 
sake, to poor and needy people, and to 
all strangers destitute of help ? 

Arts. I will so show myself, by God's 
help. 

Then the Bishop shall say : 

A LMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Fa- 
-^- ther, who hath given you a good 
will to do all these things, grant also 
unto you strength and power to per- 
form the same, that he accomplishing 
in you the good work which he hath 
begun, you may be found blameless at 
the last day, through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

Then shall Veni, Creator Spiritus,6e said: 

Come, Holy Ghost, our souls inspire, 
And lighten with celestial fire. 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 99 

Thou the anointing Spirit art, 
Who dost thy sevenfold gifts impart. 
Thy blessed unction from above 
Is comfort, life, and fire of love. 

Enable with perpetual light 
The dullness of our blinded sight ; 
Anoint and cheer our soiled face 
With the abundance of thy grace ; 
Keep far our foes, give peace at home ; 
Where thou art Guide, no ill can come. 

Teach us to know the Father, Son, 
And Thee of both to be but ONE ; 
That through the ages all along 
This may be our endless song : 
Praise to thy eternal merit, 
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 

That ended, the Bishop shall say : 

Lord, hear our Prayer. 
Ans. And let our cry come unto 
thee. 



100 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

The Bishop shall then say : 

Let us pray. 

ALMIGHTY and Most Merciful Fa- 
ther, who of thine infinite good- 
ness hast given thine only and dearly 
beloved Son Jesus Christ to be our 
Redeemer, and the author of ever- 
lasting life; who, after he had made 
perfect our redemption by his death, 
and was ascended into heaven, poured 
down his gifts abundantly upon men, 
making some Apostles, some Prophets, 
some Evangelists, some Pastors and 
Teachers, to the edifying and making 
perfect of his Church : grant, we be- 
seech thee, to this thy servant, such 
grace that he may evermore be ready 
to spread abroad thy Gospel, the glad 
tidings of reconciliation with thee, and 
use the authority given him, not to 
destruction, but to salvation ; not to 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 101 

hurt, but to help ; so that as a wise 
and faithful servant, giving to the fam- 
ily their portion in due season, he may 
at last be received into everlasting joy, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who, 
with thee and the Holy Ghost, liveth 
and reigneth, one God, world without 
end. Amen. 

Then the Bishop and Elders present shall lay their 
hands upon the head of the Elected Person, 
kneeling oefore them, the Bishop saying : 

rpHE Lord pour upon thee the Holy 
-■- Ghost for the Office and Work of a 
Bishop in the Church of God now com- 
mitted unto thee by the authority of 
the Church through the imposition of 
our hands, in the name of the Father, 
and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 
Amen. And remember that thou stir 
up the grace of God which is in thee; 
for God hath not given us the spirit of 



102 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

fear, but of power, and love, and of a 
sound mind. 

Then shall the Bishop deliver to him, the Bible, 
saying : 

GIVE heed unto reading, exhorta- 
tion, and doctrine. Think upon 
the things contained in this book. 
Be diligent in them, that the increase 
coming thereby may be manifest unto 
all men. Take heed unto thyself, 
and to thy doctrine; for by so doing 
thou shalt both save thyself and them 
that hear thee. Be to the flock of 
Christ a shepherd, not a wolf; feed 
them, devour them not. Hold up the 
weak, heal the sick, bind up the broken, 
bring again the outcast, seek the lost ; 
be so merciful that you may not be 
too remiss; so minister discipline that 
you forget not mercy; that when the 
chief Shepherd shall appear, you may 



CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 103 

receive the never-fading crown of 
glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

[Then the Bishop shall administer the Lord's Sup- 
per to the newly Consecrated Bishop and other persons 
present.] 

Then shall he offered the following Prayers : 

MOST Merciful Father, we beseech 
thee to send down upon this thy 
servant thy heavenly blessing, and to so 
endue him with thy Holy Spirit that 
he, preaching thy word, and exercising 
authority in thy Church, may not only 
be earnest to reprove, beseech, and 
rebuke with all patience and doctrine, 
but also may be, to such as believe, a 
wholesome example in word, in conver- 
sation, in love, in faith, and in purity ; 
that faithfully fulfilling his course, at 
the last day he may receive the crown 
of righteousness laid up by the Lord, 



104 CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS. 

the righteous Judge, who liveth and 
reigneth, one God with the Father and 
the Holy Ghost, world without end. 
Amen. 

Prevent us, Lord, in all our doings 
with thy most gracious favor, and fur- 
ther us with thy continual help, that in 
all our works, begun, continued, and 
ended in thee, we may glorify thy 
holy name ; and finally, by thy mercy, 
obtain everlasting life, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f T v EE peace of God, which passeth all 
■*■ understanding, keep your hearts 
and minds in the knowledge and love 
of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our 
Lord: and the blessing of God Al- 
mighty, the Father, the Son, and the 
Holy Ghost, be among you, and remain 
with you always. Amen. 



<0rfcmatton. 



FORM OF ORDAINING ELDERS. 

[When the day appointed by the Bishop is come, there 
shall be a Sermon or Exhortation, declaring the Duty 
and Office of such as come to be admitted Elders ; how 
necessary that Order is in the Church of Christ, and also 
how the People ought to esteem the Elders in their 
Office.] 

After which, one of the Elders shall present unto 
the Bishop all them that are to he Ordained, and 
say : 



I 



PRESENT unto you these persons 
to be ordained as Elders. 



Then, their names being read aloud, the Bishop 
shall say to the People : 

"DRETHREN, these are they whom 
-U we purpose, God willing, this day 
to ordain Elders. For after due exam- 



106 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

ination, we find not to the contrary, 
but that they are lawfully called to this 
function and ministry, and that they 
are persons meet for the same. But if 
there be any of you who knoweth any 
crime or impediment in any of them, 
for the which he ought not to be re- 
ceived into this holy Ministry, let him 
come forth in the name of God, and 
show what the crime or impediment is. 



[If any crime or impediment be objected, the Bishop shall 
surcease from ordaining that person until such time 
as the party accused shall be found clear of the 
same.] 

Then shall be said the Collect, Epistle, and Gospel, 
as followeth : 

The Collect 

ALMIGHTY God, Giver of all good 
things, who by thy Holy Spirit 
hast appointed divers Orders of Min- 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 107 

isters in thy Church : mercifully behold 
these thy servants now called to the 
Office of Elders, and replenish them so 
with the truth of thy doctrine, and 
adorn them with innocency of life, that 
both by word and good example they 
may faithfully serve thee in this Office, 
to the glory of thy name, and the edi- 
fication of thy Church, through the 
merits of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who 
liveth and reign eth with thee and the 
Holy Ghost, world without end. Amen. 

The Epistle. Ephesians iv, 7-13. 

UNTO every one of us is given grace 
according to the measure of the 
gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, 
When he ascended up on high, he led 
captivity captive, and gave gifts unto 
men. Now that he ascended, what is 
it but that he also descended first into 



108 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

the lower parts of the earth ? He that 
descended is the same also that as- 
cended up far above all heavens, that 
he might fill all things. And he gave 
some, Apostles; and some, Prophets; 
and some, Evangelists; and some, Pas- 
tors and Teachers ; for the perfecting 
of the saints, for the work of the minis- 
try, for the edifying of the body of 
Christ : till we all come in the unity of 
the faith, and of the knowledge of the 
Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto 
the measure of the stature of the full- 
ness of Christ. 



After this shall he read for the Gospel part of the 
tenth chapter of St. John. 

St. John x, 1-16. 

VERILY, verily, I say unto you, He 
that enter eth not by the door into 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 109 

the sheepfold, but climbeth up some 
other way, the same is a thief and a 
robber. But he that entereth in by the 
door is the shepherd of the sheep. To 
him the porter openeth ; and the sheep 
hear his voice : and he calleth his own 
sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 
And when he putteth forth his own 
sheep, he goeth before them, and the 
sheep follow him ; for they know his 
voice. And a stranger will they not 
follow, but will flee from him; for they 
know not the voice of strangers. This 
parable spake Jesus unto them; but 
they understood not what things they 
were which he spake unto them. Then 
said Jesus unto them again, Verily, 
verily, I say unto you, I am the door 
of the sheep. All that ever came be- 
fore me are thieves and robbers: but 
the sheep did not hear them. I am the 
door : by me if any man enter in, he 



110 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

shall be saved, and shall go in and out, 
and find pasture. The thief conieth 
not but for to steal, and to kill, and to 
destroy : I am come that they might 
have life, and that they might have it 
more abundantly. I am the good shep- 
herd: the good shepherd giveth his 
life for the sheep. But he that is a 
hireling, and not the shepherd, whose 
own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf 
coming, and leaveth the sheep, and 
fleeth ; and the wolf catcheth them, and 
scatter eth the sheep. The hireling 
fleeth, because he is a hireling, and 
careth not for the sheep. I am the 
good shepherd, and know my sheep, 
and am known of mine. As the Fa- 
ther knoweth me, even so know I the 
Father : and I lay down my life for the 
sheep. And other sheep I have, which 
are not of this fold : them also I must 
bring, and they shall hear my voice; 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. Ill 

and there shall be one fold and one 
shepherd. 

And that done, the .Bishop shall say unto the 
Persons to oe ordained Elders : 

YOU have heard, brethren, in your 
private examination, and in the 
holy lessons taken out of the Gospel 
and the writings of the Apostles, of 
what dignity and of how great impor- 
tance this Office is whereunto ye are 
called. And now again we exhort you, 
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that ye have in remembrance into 
how high a dignity and to how weighty 
an Office ye are called : that is to say, 
to be Messengers, AVatchmen, and Stew- 
ards of the Lord ; to teach and to pre- 
monish, to feed and provide for, the 
Lord's family ; to gather the outcasts, 
to seek the lost, and to be ever ready 



112 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

to spread abroad the Gospel, the glad 
tidings of reconciliation with God. 

Have always therefore printed in 
your remembrance how great a treas- 
ure is committed to your charge. For 
they are the sheep of Christ, which he 
bought with his death and for whom 
he shed his blood. The Church which 
you must serve is his spouse and his 
body. And if it shall happen, the same 
Church, or any member thereof, do 
take any hurt or hindrance by reason 
of your negligence, ye know the great- 
ness of the fault, and also the fearful 
punishment that will ensue. Where- 
fore consider with yourselves the end 
of the ministry toward the children of 
God, toward the spouse and body of 
Christ: and see that vou never cease 
your labor, your care and diligence, 
until you have done all that lieth in 
you, according to your bounden duty, 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 113 

to bring all such as are or shall be 
committed to your charge unto that 
agreement in the faith and knowl- 
edge of God, and to that ripeness and 
perfectness of age in Christ, that there 
be no place left among you either for 
error in religion or for viciousness in 
life. 

Forasmuch then as your Office is 
both of so great excellency, and of so 
great difficulty, ye see with how great 
care and study ye ought to apply your- 
selves, as well that ye may show your- 
selves dutiful and thankful unto that 
Lord who hath placed you in so high a 
dignity; as also to beware that neither 
you yourselves offend, nor be occasion 
that others offend. Howbeitye cannot 
have a mind and will thereto of your- 
selves, for that will and ability are 
given of God alone ; therefore ye 
ought, and have need, to pray earnestly 



114 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

for his Holy Spirit. And seeing that 
ye cannot by any other means compass 
the doing of so weighty a work, per- 
taining to the salvation of man, but 
with doctrine and exhortation taken 
out of the Holy Scriptures, and with a 
life agreeable to the same; consider 
how studious ye ought to be in reading 
and learning the Scriptures, and in 
framing the manners, both of your- 
selves and of them that specially per- 
tain unto you, according to the rule of 
the same Scriptures ; and for this self- 
same cause, how ye ought to forsake 
and set aside, as much as you may, all 
worldly cares and studies. 

We have good hope that you have 
all weighed and pondered these things 
with yourselves long before this time: 
and that you have clearly determined, 
by God's grace, to give yourselves 
wholly to this Office, whereunto it has 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 115 

pleased God to call you : so that, as 
much as lieth in you, you will apply 
yourselves wholly to this one thing, 
and draw all your cares and studies 
this way, and that you will continually 
pray to God the Father, by the media- 
tion of our only Saviour Jesus Christ, 
for the heavenly assistance of the Holy 
Ghost ; that by daily reading and 
weighing of the Scriptures ye may 
wax riper and stronger in your minis- 
try ; and that ye may so endeavor to 
sanctify the lives of you and yours, and 
to fashion them after the rule and doc- 
trine of Christ, that ye may be whole- 
some and godly examples and patterns 
for the people to follow. 

And now, that this present Congre- 
gation of Christ here assembled may 
also understand your minds and wills 
in these things, and that this your 
promise may the more move you to do 



116 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

your duties, ye shall answer plainly to 
these things which we, in the name of 
God and his Church, shall demand of 
you touching the same: 

Do you think in your heart that you 
are truly called, according to the will 
of our Lord Jesus Christ, to the Order 
of Elders? 

Ans. I think so. 

The Bishop. Are you persuaded that 
the Holy Scriptures contain sufficiently 
all doctrine required of necessity for 
eternal salvation through faith in Jesus 
Christ ? And are you determined out 
of the said Scriptures to instruct the 
people committed to your charge, and 
to teach nothing as required of neces- 
sity to eternal salvation but that which 
you shall be persuaded may be con- 
eluded and proved by the Scriptures ? 

Ans. I am so persuaded, and have 
so determined, by God's grace. 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 117 

The Bishop, Will you then give your 
faithful diligence always so to minister 
the Doctrine, and Sacraments, and Dis- 
cipline of Christ, as the Lord hath 
commanded? 

Ans. I will so do, by the help of the 
Lord. 

The Bishop. Will you be ready with 
all faithful diligence to banish and 
drive away all erroneous and strange 
doctrines contrary to God's w T ord, and 
to use both public and private moni- 
tions and exhortations, as well to the 
sick as to the whole within your charge, 
as need shall require and occasion shall 
be given? 

Ans. I will, the Lord being my 
helper. 

The Bishop. Will you be diligent in 
Prayers, and in reading of the Holy 
Scriptures, and in such studies as help 
to the knowledge of the same, laying 



118 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

aside the study of the world and the 
flesh? 

Arts. I will endeavor so to do, the 
Lord being my helper. 

The Bishop, Will you be diligent to 
frame and fashion yourselves, and your 
families, according to the doctrine of 
Christ; and to make both yourselves 
and them, as much as in you lieth, 
wholesome examples and patterns to 
the flock of Christ ? 

Arts. I will apply myself thereto, the 
Lord being my helper. 

The Bishop. Will you maintain and 
set forward, as much as lieth in you, 
quietness, peace, and love, among all 
Christian people, and especially among 
them that are or shall be committed to 
your charge? 

Arts. I will so do, the Lord being 
iny helper. 

The Bishop. Will you reverently obey 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 119 

your chief Ministers, unto whom is 
committed the charge and government 
over you, following with a glad mind 
and will their godly admonitions, sub- 
mitting yourselves to their godly judg- 
ments? 

Arts. I will so do, the Lord being 
my helper. 

Then shall the Bishop, standing up, say : 

ALMIGHTY God, who hath given 
you this will to do all these things, 
grant also unto you strength and 
power to perform the same ; that he 
may accomplish his work which he 
hath begun in you, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



[After this the Congregation shall be desired secretly in 
their Prayers to make their humble supplications to God 
for all these things : for the which Prayers there shall be 
silence kept for a space.] 

After which shall be said by the Bishop, the Per- 
sons to be ordained Elders all kneeling, Yeni, 



120 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

Creator Spiritus, the Bishop beginning, and 
the Elders and others that are present answering 
by verse as followeth : 

Come, Holy Ghost, our souls inspire, 
And lighten with celestial fire. 
Thou the anointing Spirit art, 
Who dost thy sevenfold gifts impart 
Thy blessed unction from above 
Is comfort, life, and fire of love. 

Enable with perpetual light 
The dullness of our blinded sight; 
Anoint and cheer our soiled face 
With the abundance of thy grace ; 
Keep far our foes, give peace at home; 
Where chou art Guide, no ill can come. 

Teach us to know the Father, Son, 
And Thee of both to be but ONE; 
That through the ages all along 
This may be our endless song: 
Praise to thy eternal merit, 
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 121 

That done, the Bishop shall pray in this wise, 
and say : 

Let us pray. 

ALMIGHTY God and heavenly Fa- 
ther, who of thine infinite love 
and goodness toward us hast given to 
us thine only and most dearly beloved 
Son Jesus Christ to be our Redeemer, 
and the author of everlasting life ; who, 
after he had made perfect our redemp- 
tion by his death, and was ascend- 
ed into heaven, sent abroad into the 
world his Apostles, Prophets, Evangel- 
ists, Teachers, and Pastors, by whose 
labor and ministry he gathered to- 
gether a great flock in all parts of the 
world, to set forth the eternal praise of 
thy holy name : for these so great ben- 
efits of thy eternal goodness, and for 
that thou hast vouchsafed to call these 
thy servants here present to the same 



122 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

Office and Ministry appointed for the 
salvation of mankind, we render unto 
thee most hearty thanks ; we praise 
and worship thee ; and we humbly be- 
seech thee by the same, thy blessed 
Son, to grant unto all who either here 
or elsewhere call upon thy name, that 
we may continue to show ourselves 
thankful unto thee for these, and all 
other thy benefits, and that we may 
daily increase and go forward in the 
knowledge and faith of thee and thy 
Son, by the Holy Spirit. So that as 
well by these thy Ministers, as by them 
over whom they shall be appointed thy 
Ministers, thy holy name may be for- 
ever glorified, and thy blessed kingdom 
enlarged, through the same, thy Son 
Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and 
reigneth with thee in the unity of the 
same Holy Spirit, world without end. 
Amen. 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 123 

When this Prayer is done, the Bishop and the 
Elders present shall lay their hands severally 
%ipon the head of every one that receiveth the Order 
of Elders / the Receivers humbly kneeling, and 
the Bishop saying ; 

THE Lord pour upon thee the Holy- 
Ghost for the Office and Work of 
an Elder in the Church of God, now 
committed unto thee by the authority 
of the Church, through the imposition 
of our hands. And be thou a faithful 
dispenser of the word of God, and of 
his Holy Sacraments; in the name of 
the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Then the Bishop shall deliver to every one of them, 
kneeling, the Bible into his hands, saying ; 

fT 1AKE thou authority as an Elder in 
-A- the Church, to preach the word of 
God, and to administer the Holy Sacra- 
ments in the Congregation. 



124 ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 

Then the Bishop shall offer the following Prayer : 

MOST Merciful Father, we beseech 
thee to send upon these thy serv- 
ants thy heavenly blessings, that they 
may be clothed with righteousness, and 
that thy word spoken by their mouths 
may have such success that it may 
never be spoken in vain. Grant also 
that we may have grace to hear and 
receive what they shall deliver out of 
thy most holy word, or agreeably 
to the same, as the means of our sal- 
vation ; and that in all our words and 
deeds we may seek thy glory, and the 
increase of thy kingdom, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Prevent us, Lord, in all our doings, 
with thy most gracious favor, and fur- 
ther us by thy continual help ; that in 
all our works, begun, continued, and 
ended in thee, we may glorify thy holy 



ORDINATION OF ELDERS. 125 

name, and finally, by thy mercy, ob- 
tain everlasting life, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

THE peace of God, which passeth all 
understanding, keep your hearts 
and minds in the knowledge and love 
of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ 
our Lord : and the blessing of God 
Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the 
Holy Ghost, be among you, and remain 
with you always. Amen. 

*** [If on the same day the Order of Deacons be given to 
some, and that of Elders to others, the Deacons shall be 
first presented, and then the Elders. The Collects shall 
both be used ; first that for Deacons , then that for Elders. 
The Epistle shall be Ephesians iv, 7-13, as before in this Of- 
fice, immediately after which, they who are to be ordained 
Deacons shall be examined and ordained as is below pre- 
scribed. Then one of them having read the Gospel, which 
shall be St. John x, 1-16, as before in this Office, they who 
are to be ordained Elders shall likewise be examined and 
ordained, as in this Office before appointed.] 



d^rbmation. 



FORM OF ORDAINING DEACONS. 

[When the day appointed by the Bishop is come, there shall 
be a Sermon or Exhortation, declaring the Duty and Office 
of such as come to be admitted to the Order of Dea- 
cons.] 

After which one of the Elders shall present unto 
the Bishop the Persons to he ordained Deacons, 
and their names being read aloud the Bishop 
shall say unto the People : 

BRETHREN, if there be any of you 
who knoweth any crime or imped- 
iment in any of these persons presented 
to be ordained Deacons, for the which 
he ought not to be admitted to that 
Office, let him come forth in the name 
of God, and show what the crime or 
impediment is. 



ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 127 

[If any crime or impediment be objected, the Bishop shall 
surcease from ordaining that person until such time 
as the party accused shall be found clear of the 
same.] 

Then shall he read the following Collect and 

Epistle : 

The Collect 

ALMIGHTY God, who by thy divine 
providence hast appointed divers 
Orders of Ministers in thy Church, and 
didst inspire thy Apostles to choose into 
the Order of Deacons thy first martyr. 
Saint Stephen, with others : mercifully 
behold these thy servants, now called 
to the like Office and Administration ; 
replenish them so with the truth of 
thy doctrine, and adorn them with in- 
nocency of life, that both by word 
and good example they may faithfully 
serve thee in this Office to the glory of 
thy name, and the edification of thy 
Church, through the merits of our 



128 ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 

Saviour Jesus Christ, who liveth and 
reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, 
now and forever. Amen. 

The Epistle. 1 Timothy iii, 8-13. 

LIKEWISE must the Deacons be 
^ grave, not double-tongued, not 
given to much wine, not greedy of 
filthy lucre ; holding the mystery of the 
faith in a pure conscience. And let 
these also first be proved ; then let 
them use the Office of a Deacon, being 
found blameless. Even so must their 
wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, 
faithful in all things. Let the Deacons 
be the husbands of one wife, ruling 
their children and their own houses 
well. For they that have used the 
Office of a Deacon well purchase to 
themselves a good degree, and great 
boldness in the faith which is in Christ 
Jesus. 



ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 129 

Then shall the Bishop, in the presence of the People, 
examine every one of those who are to he ordained, 
after this manner following : 

DO you trust that you are inwardly 
moved by the Holy Ghost to take 
upon you the Office of the Ministry in 
the Church of Christ, to serve God for 
the promoting of his glory and the edi- 
fying of his people ? 

Arts. I trust so. 

The Bishop. Do you unfeignedly be- 
lieve all the canonical Scriptures of the 
Old and New Testaments ? 

Ans. I do believe them. 

The Bishop, Will you diligently read 
or expound the same unto the people 
whom you shall be appointed to serve ? 

Ans. I will. 

The Bishop. It appertaineth to the 
Office of a Deacon to assist the Elder 
in divine service ; and especially when 
he ministereth the Holy Communion, to 



130 ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 

help him in the distribution thereof; 
to read and expound the Holy Script- 
ures; to instruct the youth; and to 
baptize. And furthermore, it is his 
office to search for the sick, poor, and 
impotent, that they may be visited and 
relieved. Will you do this gladly and 
willingly ? 

Arts. I will do so, by the help of 
God. 

The Bishop. Will you apply all your 
diligence to frame and fashion your 
own lives and the lives of your fami- 
lies according to the doctrine of Christ; 
and to make both yourselves and them, 
as much as in you lieth, wholesome ex- 
amples of the flock of Christ ? 

Ans. I will do so, the Lord being my 
helper. 

The Bishop. Will you reverently obey 
them to whom the charge and govern- 
ment over you is committed, following 



ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 131 

with a glad mind and will their godly 
admonitions? 

Ans. I will endeavor so to do, the 
Lord being my helper. 

Then the Bishop, laying his hands severally upon 
the head of every one of them, shall say: 

TAKE thou authority to execute the 
Office of a Deacon in the Church 
of God; in the name of the Father, 
and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 
Amen. 

Then shall the Bishop deliver to every one of them 
the Bible, saying: 

TAKE thou authority to read the 
Holy Scriptures in the Church of 
God, and to preach the same. 

Then one appointed by the Bishop shall read the 
Gospel: 

Luke xii, 35-38. 

LET your loins be girded about, and 
your lights burning ; and ye your- 



132 ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 

selves like unto men that wait for their 
lord, when he will return from the 
wedding; that, when he cometh and 
knocketh, they may open unto him 
immediately. Blessed are those serv- 
ants, whom the lord when he cometh 
shall find watching : verily I say unto 
you, that he shall gird himself, and 
make them to sit down to meat, and 
will come forth and serve them. And 
if he shall come in the second watch, 
or come in the third watch, and find 
them so, blessed are those servants. 

Immediately before the Benediction shall be said 
these Collects following : 

A LMIGHTY God, Giver of all good 
-^ things, who of thy great goodness 
hast vouchsafed to accept and take 
these thy servants into the Office of 
Deacons in thy Church: make them, 
we beseech thee, Lord, to be modest, 



ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 133 

humble, and constant in their ministra- 
tion, and to have a ready will to ob- 
serve all spiritual discipline ; that they, 
having always the testimony of a good 
conscience, and continuing ever stable 
and strong in thy Son Christ, may so 
well behave themselves in this inferior 
office that they may be found worthy 
to be called into the higher Ministries 
in thy Church, through the same, thy 
Son our Saviour Jesus Christ : to whom 
be glory and honor, world without end. 
Amen, 

Prevent us, Lord, in all our doings, 
with thy most gracious favor, and fur- 
ther us with thy continual help ; that 
in all our works, begun, continued, 
and ended in thee, we may glorify thy 
holy name, and finally, by thy mercy, 
obtain everlasting life, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



134 ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 

HPHE peace of God, which passeth all 
-*- understanding, keep your hearts 
and minds in the knowledge and love 
of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our 
Lord : and the blessing of God Al- 
mighty, the Father, the Son, and the 
Holy Ghost, be among you, and remain 
with you always. Amen. 



Consecration. 



FORM FOR CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 

[Devotional Exercises and suitable Addresses may precede 
the following Order of Service.] 

1. PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATE. 

2. HYMN. 

(Or selection from Chnrch Hymnal, if preferred.) 

Saviour, thy dying love 

Thou gavest roe, 
Nor should I aught withhold, 

Dear Lord, from thee ; 
In love my soul would bow, 
My heart fulfill its vow, 
Some offering bring thee now, 

Something for thee. 

Give me a faithful heart, 
Likeness to thee, 



136 CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 

That each departing day 

Henceforth may see 
Some work of love begun, 
Some deed of kindness done, 
Some wanderer sought and won, 

Something for thee. 

3. RESPONSIVE READING. 

Leader. The Spirit of the Lord God 
is upon me; because the Lord hath 
anointed me to preach good tidings 
unto the meek; he hath sent me to 
bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim 
liberty to the captives, and the opening 
of the prison to them that are bound. 

Cong. For ye know the grace of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was 
rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty 
might be rich. 

Leader. He telleth the number of 
the stars ; he calleth them all by their 



CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 137 

names. Great is our Lord, and of 
great power : his understanding is in- 
finite. 

Cong, The Lord lifteth up the meek : 
he casteth the wicked down to the 
ground. Sing unto the Lord with 
thanksgiving; sing praise upon the 
harp unto our God: for he hath 
strengthened the bars of thy gates ; he 
hath blessed thy children within 
thee. 

Leader, Have respect unto the cov- 
enant : for the dark places of the earth 
are full of the habitations of cruelty. 

Cong, let not the oppressed return 
ashamed: let the poor and needy 
praise thy name. 

Leader, Thou lovest righteousness, 
and hatest wickedness : therefore God, 
thy God, hath anointed thee with the 
oil of gladness above thy fellows. 

Cong, All thy garments smell of 



138 CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 

myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the 
ivory palaces, whereby they have made 
thee glad. 

Leader, Kings' daughters were among 
thy honorable women : upon thy right 
hand did stand the queen in gold of 
Ophir. 

Gong. Hearken, daughter, and con- 
sider, and incline thine ear ; forget also 
thine own people, and thy father's 
house. 

Leader. So shall the King greatly 
desire thy beauty : for he is thy Lord ; 
and worship thou him. 

Cong. The King's daughter is all 
glorious within: her clothing is of 
wrought gold. 

Leader. She shall be brought unto 
the King in raiment of needlework : 
the virgins her companions that follow 
her shall be brought unto thee. 

Cong. With gladness and rejoicing 



CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 139 

shall they be brought : they shall enter 
into the King's palace. 

Leader. I will make thy name to be 
remembered in all generations : there- 
fore shall the people praise thee for- 
ever and ever. 

Cong. Let thy work appear unto thy 
servants, and thy glory unto their 
children. And let the beauty of the 
Lord our God be upon us : and estab- 
lish thou the work of our hands upon 
us ; vea, the work of our hands estab- 
lish thou it. 

4. PRAYER. 

Let us pray: 

ETERNAL GOD, the Father of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, the Creator of 
man and of woman, who didst replenish 
with thy Spirit Miriam and Deborah 
and Anna and Huldah ; who didst not 
disdain that thy only begotten Son 



140 CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 

should be born of a woman ; who also 
in the tabernacle of the testimony, and 
in the temple, didst ordain women to 
be keepers of thy holy gates — do thou 
now also look down upon these thy 
servants who are to be set apart to the 
Office of Deaconess, and grant them thy 
Holy Spirit that they may worthily 
discharge the work which is com- 
mitted to them, to thy glory, and the 
praise of thy Christ, with whom glory 
and adoration be to thee and the Holy 
Spirit forever. Amen. 

5. ADDRESS TO THE CANDIDATES. 

DEAR SISTERS, we rejoice with you 
that in the good providence of 
God an open door of usefulness has been 
found for you in the service of the Church 
of Christ. In our Master's wide vineyard 
there are a thousand forms of labor, 
and to each disciple some fitting task 



CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 141 

is assigned; but to you are accorded 
peculiar privileges and priceless oppor- 
tunities. Released from other cares, 
you give yourselves without reserva- 
tion to the service of the Lord of the 
Vineyard, ready for any duty which 
may fall to your lot. Like our blessed 
Master, you will henceforth go about 
doing good, ministering as he did to 
the wants of a suffering, sorrowing, 
and sin-laden world. The Church now 
solemnly sets you apart for her special 
service. You are to work for Jesus 
only. You are to minister to the 
poor, visit the sick, pray with the dy- 
ing, care for the orphan, seek the wan- 
dering, comfort the sorrowing, save 
the sinning, and ever be ready to take 
up any other duty for which willing 
hands cannot otherwise be found. 
Such a ministry is one which confers 
upon you a great honor, but also a 



142 CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 

solemn responsibility. You have not 
entered upon it lightly, and no doubt 
in the sacred stillness of the sanctuary 
of the heart you have already conse- 
crated yourselves to this office and 
work. What you have done alone 
with God, you now do formally and 
publicly in the presence of the Church. 

Quest. Do you believe that you have 
been led by the Spirit and providence 
of God to engage in this work, and 
assume the duties of this office? 

Ans. I do. 

Quest. Do you, in the presence of 
God and of this congregation, promise 
faithfully to perform the duties of a 
Deaconess in the Church of God ? 

Ans. I do. 

Quest. Do you accept the Bible as 
God's Word, and will you make it a 
lamp unto your feet, and a light unto 
your path ? 



CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 143 

Arts. I so accept it, and will so walk 
in its light. 

Quest. Will you strive to walk so 
close to your Saviour's side that you 
will ever carry his blessed presence to 
the hearts and homes of those to whom 
you minister ? 

Ans. I will endeavor so to do. 

Quest Will you cheerfully accept 
the direction of those whom the Church 
may set over you in the prosecution 
of your work? 

Ans. I will cheerfully do so. 

[Congregation and Candidates, kneeling, after a 
brief season of silent prayer unite in singing.'] 

6. HYMN. 

(Or selection from Church Hymnal, if preferred.) 

Take my life, and let it be 
Consecrated, Lord, to thee ; 
Take my hands, and let them move 
At the impulse of thy love. 



144 CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 

Take my feet, and let them be 
Swift and beautiful for thee ; 
Take my voice, and let me sing, 
Always, only, for my King. 

Take my will, and make it thine; 
It shall be no longer mine. 
Take my heart, it is thine own ; 
It shall be thy royal throne. 

Take my love ; my God, I pour 
At thy feet its treasure-store ; 
Take myself, and I will be 
Ever, only, all for thee. 

[The Congregation rise while Candidates remain 
kneeling.] 

7. INVOCATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. 

MAT the Spirit of the Living God de- 
scend upon you and abide with 
you evermore. May his holy anointing 
impart to you grace for every trial, 
and gifts for every duty. May his 



CONSECRATION OF DEACONESSES. 145 

presence be to you a pillar of cloud 
by day, and a pillar of fire by night, all 
along the journey of life ; and may the 
blessing of God the Father, Son, and 
Holy Spirit be with you now and ever- 
more. Amen. 

[The Candidates rise, and the Minister, taking the 
right hand of each Candidate, shall say :] 

I ADMIT thee to the Office of Dea- 
coness in the Church of God, in the 
name of the Father, and of the Son, 
and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. 

8. DISMISSAL, WITH BENEDICTION. 

THE peace of God, which passeth all 
understanding, keep your hearts 
and minds in the knowledge and love of 
God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our 
Lord: and the blessing of God Almighty, 
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, 
be among you, and remain with you al- 
ways. Amen. 



FORM 



LAYING THE CORNER STONE OF A 
CHURCH. 



Haptng a Corner intone* 



FORM FOR LAYING THE CORNER STONE 
OF A CHURCH. 

The Minister, standing near the place vjhere the 
Stone is to be laid, shall say imto the Congre- 
gation : 

Pi EARLY Beloved, we are taught 
■*-^ in the word of God, that, although 
the heaven of heavens cannot contain 
the Eternal One, much less the walls of 
temples made with hands, yet his de- 
light is ever with the sons of men, and 
that wherever two or three are gath- 
ered in his name, there is he in the 
midst of them. And in all ages his 



150 LAYING A CORNER STONE. 

servants have separated certain places 
for his worship : as Jacob erected a 
stone in Bethel for God's house ; as 
Moses made a tabernacle in the desert ; 
as Solomon builded a temple for the 
Lord, which he filled with the glory of 
his presence before all the people. We 
are now assembled to lay the Corner 
Stone of a new house for the worship 
of the God of our fathers. Let us not 
doubt that he will favorably approve 
our godly purpose, and let us now de- 
voutly unite in singing his praise, and 
in prayer for his blessing on this our 
undertaking. 

Let one of the Hymns 656-666, Church Hymnal, 
he sung. 
Then shall the Minister say ; 

Let us pray. 

MOST Glorious God, the heaven is 
thy throne and the earth is thy 
footstool ; what house then can be 



LAYING A CORNER STONE 151 

builded for thee, or where is the place 
of thy rest ? Yet, blessed be thy 
name, Lord God, that it hath pleased 
thee to have thy habitation among 
the sons of men, and to dwell in the 
midst of the assembly of the saints upon 
the earth. And now, especially, we 
render thanks unto thy holy name that 
it hath pleased thee to put it into the 
hearts of thy servants to erect in this 
place a house for thy worship. We 
thank thee for thy grace which has 
inclined them to contribute of their 
substance for the glory of thy name : 
and we pray thee to continue thy 
blessing upon their pious undertaking. 
Amen. 

May many unite with them in their 
holy work, until this habitation of thy 
house shall be completed, and ready 
for dedication to thy service, free from 
all debt or claim of man. Amen. 



152 LAYING A CORNERSTONE. 

May peace and harmony prevail in 
the counsels of thy servants, and may 
no selfish or divided aims find place 
among them. May the work of this 
building be completed without hurt or 
accident to any person. And when 
thou shalt have prospered the work of 
their hands upon them, and this house 
shall be prepared and finished for thy 
service, grant that all who shall enjoy 
the benefit of this pious work may 

show forth their thankfulness bv mak- 

t/ 

ing a right use of it, to the glory 
of thy blessed name, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Grant that all who shall hereafter 
worship thee in the temple here to 
be builded may so serve and please 
thee in all holy exercises of godli- 
ness, that in the end they may come 
to that temple on high, even to the 
holy place made without hands, 



LAYING A CORNER STONE. 1 53 

whose builder and maker is God. 
A men. 

Hear us, Lord, for thou art our 
God in whom we trust. And when we 
shall cease to pray unto thee on earth, 
may we, with all those who in like 
manner have erected such places to 
thy name, and with all thy saints and 
redeemed ones, eternally praise thee 
for all thy goodness vouchsafed unto 
us here on earth and laid up for us 
there in heaven. Amen. 

Accept these our prayers, we beseech 
thee, for the sake of thy dear Son; 
and to thee, the only true and living 
God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, be 
honor, praise, and glory, for ever and 
ever. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister read the following Psalm, 
or the Minister and People may read it in alter- 
nate verses ; the parts in italics to he read by the 
People : 



154 LAYING A CORNER STONE. 

Psalm cxxxii. 

Lord, remember David, and all his 
afflictions : 

How he sware unto the Lord, and 
vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob; 

Surely I will not come into the taber- 
nacle of my house, nor go up into my bed; 

I will not give sleep to mine eyes, nor 
slumber to mine eyelids, 

Until I find out a place for the Lord, 

A habitation for the mighty God of 
Jacob. 

Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we 
found it in the fields of the wood. 

We will go into his tabernacles: we 
will worship at his footstool. 

Arise, Lord, into thy rest; thou, 
and the ark of thy strength. 

Let thy priests be clothed with right- 
eousness; 

And let thy saints shout for joy. 



LAYING A CORNER STONE. 155 

For thy servant David 7 s sake turn not 
away the face of thine anointed. 

The Lord hath sworn in truth unto 
David ; he will not turn from it ; 

Of the fruit of thy body will I set 
upon thy throne. 

If thy children will keep rny cove- 
nant and my testimony that I shall 
teach them, their children shall also sit 
upon thy throne for evermore. 

For the Lord hath chosen Zion; he 
hath desired it for his habitation. 

This is my rest forever ; here will I 
dwell ; for I have desired it. 

I will abundantly bless her provision: 

I will satisfy her poor w ith bread. 

I will also clothe her priests with sal- 
vation : 

And her saints shall shout aloud for 

There will I make the horn of David 
to bud: 



156 LAYING A CORNERSTONE. 

I have ordained a lamp for mine 

anointed. 

His enemies will I clothe with shame: 
But upon himself shall his crown 

flourish. 

The Lesson, 1 Corinthians iii, 9-23. 

T70R we are laborers together with 
-■- God: ye are God's husbandry, ye 
are God's building. According to the 
grace of God which is given unto me, 
as a wise master builder, I have laid 
the foundation, and another buildeth 
thereon. But let everv man take heed 
how he buildeth thereupon. For other 
foundation can no man lay than that 
is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if 
any man build upon this foundation 
gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, 
stubble ; every man's work shall be 
made manifest: for the day shall de- 



LAYING A CORNER STONE. 157 

clare it, because it shall be revealed by 
fire ; and the fire shall try every man's 
work of what sort it is. If any man's 
work abide which he hath built there- 
upon, he shall receive a reward. If 
any man's work shall be burned, he 
shall suffer loss : but he himself shall be 
saved ; yet so as by fire. Know ye not 
that ye are the temple of God, and that 
the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If 
any man defile the temple of God, him 
shall God destroy ; for the temple of 
God is holy, which temple ye are. 
Let no man deceive himself. If any 
man among you seemeth to be wise in 
this world, let him become a fool, that 
he may be wise. For the wisdom of 
this world is foolishness with God: 
for it is written, He taketh the wise 
in their own craftiness. And again, 
The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the 
wise, that they are vain. Therefore 



158 LAYING A CORNERSTONE. 

let no man glory in men : for all 
things are yours, whether Paul, or 
Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or 
life, or death, or things present, or 
things to come ; all are yours ; and ye 
are Christ's ; and Christ is God's. 

Then shall follow the Sermon, or an address suit- 
able to the occasion, after which the Contribu- 
tions of the People shall be received. 

Then shall the Minister, standing by the Stone, 
exhibit to the Congregation a box to be placed in an 
excavation of the Stone. It may contain a copy of the 
Bible, the Hymn Book, the Discipline, the Church 
Year Book for the year, Church periodicals of 
recent date, the names of the Pastor, Trustees, 
and Building Committee of the Church, with such 
other documents as may be desired. A list of these 
may be read, after which the Minister may deposit 
the box in the Stone and cover it; and the Stone shall 
be laid and adjusted by the Minister, assisted by 
the Builder. 



I 



Then shall the Minister say : 

N the name of the Father, and of 
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, 



LAYING A CORNER STONE. 159 

we lay this Corner Stone for the foun- 
dation of a house to be builded and 
consecrated to the service of Almighty 
God, according to the Order and Usages 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
Amen, 

The service may conclude with extemporary Prayer, 
the LoroVs Prayer, and the Benediction. 



FORM 



FOR 



THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 



Bebtcation of a Cfmrcf). 



FORM FOR THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

The Congregation being assembled in the Church, 
the Minister shall say; 

DEARLY Beloved , the Scriptures 
teach us that God is well pleased 
with those who build temples to his 
name. We have heard how he filled 
the temple of Solomon with his glory, 
and how in the second temple he 
manifested himself still more glori- 
ously. And the Gospel approves and 
commends the centurion who built a 
synagogue for the people. Let us not 
doubt that he will also favorably ap- 
prove our purpose of dedicating this 



164 DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

place in solemn manner, for the per- 
formance of the several offices of relig- 
ious worship ; and let us now devoutly 
join in praise to his name, that this 
godly undertaking hath been so far 
completed, and in prayer for his fur- 
ther blessing upon all who have been 
engaged therein, and upon all who 
shall hereafter worship his name in 
this place. 

Let one of the Hymns 656-666, Church Hymnal, 
he sung. Afterward let extemporary Prayer he 
offered, the Congregation all kneeling . 

Then shall the Minister, or some one appointed hy 
him, read: 

The First Lesson. 2 Chronicles vi, 1, 2, 
18-21, 40-42 ; vii, 1-4. 

THEN said Solomon, The Lord hath 
said that he would dwell in the 
thick darkness. But I have built a 
house of habitation for thee, and a 
place for thy dwelling forever. 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 165 

But will God in very deed dwell with 
men on the earth ? Behold, heaven and 
the heaven of heavens cannot contain 
thee ; how much less this house which 
I have built ! Have respect therefore 
to the prayer of thy servant, and to 
his supplication, Lord my God, to 
hearken unto the cry and the prayer 
which thy servant prayeth before thee : 
that thine eyes may be open upon 
this house day and night, upon the 
place whereof thou hast said that 
thou wouldest put thy name there ; to 
hearken unto the prayer which thy 
servant prayeth toward this place. 
Hearken therefore unto the supplica- 
tions of thy servant, and of thy people 
Israel, which they shall make toward 
this place: hear thou from thy dwell- 
ing-place, even from heaven ; and when 
thou hearest, forgive. 

Now, my God, let, I beseech thee, 



166 DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

thine eyes be open, and let thine ears 
be attent unto the prayer that is made 
in this place. Now therefore arise, 
Lord God, into thy resting-place, thou, 
and the ark of thy strength : let thy 
priests, Lord God, be clothed with 
salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in 
goodness. Lord God, turn not away 
the face of thine anointed : remember 
the mercies of David thy servant. 

Now when Solomon had made an end 
of praying, the fire came down from 
heaven, and consumed the burnt offer- 
ing and the sacrifices ; and the glory 
of the Lord filled the house. And the 
priests could not enter into the house 
of the Lord, because the glory of the 
Lord had filled the Lord's house. And 
when all the children of Israel saw how 
the fire came down, and the glory of 
the Lord upon the house, they bowed 
themselves with their faces to the 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 167 

ground upon the pavement, and wor- 
shiped, and praised the Lord, saying, 
For he is good; for his mercy endureth 
forever. Then the king and all the 
people offered sacrifices before the 
Lord. 

The Second Lesson. Hebrews x, 19-26. 

HAVING therefore, brethren, bold- 
ness to enter into the holiest by 
the blood of Jesus, by a new and living 
way, which he hath consecrated for us, 
through the veil, that is to say, his 
flesh ; and having a high priest over 
the house of God; let us draw near 
with a true heart in full assurance of 
faith, having our hearts sprinkled from 
an evil conscience, and our bodies 
washed with pure water. Let us hold 
fast the profession of our faith with- 
out wavering; for he is faithful that 
promised; and let us consider one 



168 DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

another to provoke unto love and to 
good works : not forsaking the assem- 
bling of ourselves together, as the man- 
ner of some is; but exhorting one 
another: and so much the more, as 
ye see the day approaching. For if 
we sin willfully after that we have 
received the knowledge of the truth, 
there remaineth no more sacrifice for 
sins. 

Then shall one of the Hymns 656-666, Church 
Hymnal, be sung ; after which the Minister 
shall deliver a Sermon suitable to the occasion. 
Contributions shall then be received from the 
People. 

Then shall the Minister read the following Psalm, 
or the Minister and the Congregation may read 
it alternately ; the parts in italics to be read by 
the Congregation. 

Psalm cxxii. 
I was glad when they said unto me, 
Let us go into the house of the Lord. 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 169 

Our feet shall stand within thy gates, 
O Jerusalem. 

Jerusalem is builded as a city that is 
compact together : 

Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of 
the Lord, 

Unto the testimony of Israel, to give 
thanks unto the name of the Lord. 

For there are set thrones of judgment, 
the thrones of the house of David. 

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem : 

They shall prosper that love thee. 

Peace be within thy walls, 

And prosperity within thy palaces. 

For my brethren and companions' 
sakes, I will now say, Peace be within 
thee. 

Because of the house of the Lord our 
God Twill seek thy good. 



170 DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

Then let the Trustees stand up before the Altar, and 
one of them, or some one in their behalf, say unto 

the Minister : 

WE present unto you this Building, 
to be dedicated as a Church for 
the service and worship of Almighty 
God. 

Then shall the Minister request the Congregation to 
stand, while he repeats the following 



D 



DECLARATION: 

EABLY Beloved, it is meet and 
right, as we learn from the Holy 
Scriptures, that houses erected for the 
public worship of God should be spe- 
cially set apart and dedicated to relig- 
ious uses. For such a dedication we 
are now assembled. With gratitude, 
therefore, to Almighty God, who has 
signally blessed his servants in their 
holy enterprise of erecting this Church, 
we dedicate it to his service, for the 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 171 

reading of the Holy Scriptures, the 
preaching of the word of God, the 
administration of the Holy Sacra- 
ments, and for all other exercises of re- 
ligious worship and service, according 
to the Discipline and Usages of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. And, as 
the dedication of the temple is vain 
without the solemn consecration of the 
worshipers also, I now call upon you 
all to dedicate yourselves anew to the 
service of God. To him let our souls 
be dedicated, that they may be renewed 
after the image of Christ. To him let 
our bodies be dedicated, that they may 
be fit temples for the indwelling of the 
Holy Ghost. To him may our labors 
and business be dedicated, that their 
fruit may tend to the glory of his great 
name, and to the advancement of his 
kingdom. And that he may graciously 
accept this solemn act, let us pray. 



172 DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

The Congregation kneeling, the Minister shall offer 
the following Prayer : 

OMOST Glorious Lord, we acknowl- 
edge that we are not worthy to 
offer unto thee anything belonging 
unto us; yet we beseech thee ; in thy 
great goodness, graciously to accept 
the dedication of this place to thy 
service, and to prosper this our under- 
taking; receive the prayers and inter- 
cessions of all those thy servants who 
shall call upon thee in this house ; and 
give them grace to prepare their hearts 
to serve thee with reverence and godly 
fear ; affect them with an awful appre- 
hension of thy divine majesty, and a 
deep sense of their own unworthi- 
ness; that so approaching thy sanctuary 
with lowliness and devotion, and com- 
ing before thee with clean thoughts 
and pure hearts, with bodies undefiled, 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 173 

and minds sanctified, they may always 
perform a service acceptable to thee, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Regard, Lord, the supplication of 
thy servants, and grant that whosoever 
shall be dedicated to thee in this house 
by Baptism may ever remain in the 
number of thy faithful children. Amen. 

Grant, Lord, that whosoever shall 
receive in this place the blessed Sacra- 
ment of the Body and Blood of Christ 
may come to that holy Ordinance with 
faith, charity, and true repentance ; 
and, being filled with thy grace and 
heavenly benediction, may, to their 
great and endless comfort, obtain for- 
giveness of their sins, and all other 
benefits of his death. Amen. 

Grant, Lord, that by thy holy 
word which shall be read and preached 
in this place, and by thy Holy Spirit 
grafting it inwardly in the heart, the 



174 DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

hearers thereof may both perceive and 
know what things they ought to do, 
and may have power and strength to 
perform the same. Amen. 

Now, therefore, arise, Lord, and 
come into this place of thy rest, thou 
and the ark of thy strength. Let 
thine eye be open toward this house 
day and night; and let thine ears be 
ready toward the prayers of thy chil- 
dren which they shall make unto thee 
in this place: and whensoever thy 
servants shall make to thee their peti- 
tions here, do thou hear them from 
heaven, thy dwelling-place, the throne 
of the glory of thy kingdom ; and 
when thou hearest, forgive. And 
grant, Lord, we beseech thee, that 
here and elsewhere thy ministers may 
be clothed with righteousness, and thy 
saints rejoice in thy salvation. And 
may we all, with thy people every- 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 175 

where, grow up into a holy temple in 
the Lord, and be at last received into 
the glorious temple above ; the house 
not made with hands, eternal in the 
heavens. And to the Father, and the 
Son, and the Holy Spirit, be glory and 
praise, world without end. Amen. 

The service to conclude with a Doxology and 
Benediction. 



JAN 11 IS09 



